ISSUE: 1 - APRIL 2022
ALYSHIA A Girl En Route
I have loved magazines for as long as I can remember. When I was growing up, my room was always piled up with all kinds of magazines, ranging from computer to business and from home decor to fashion and glamour. I was lucky enough to make my love for magazines into a business and started my first professional magazine in 2010. I am now writing my editor’s letter for the first issue of this TorontoPages magazine gives me the same pleasure and feeling as I had writing it for my first magazine almost twelve years ago. It was long ago when we were putting this issue together but due the pandemic, it had to be pushed several times but we were very sure that it will be a good one and will be a great addition to the magazines scene in Toronto. ON THE COVER: ALYSHIA (@agirl.enroute) INTERVIEWED BY: JAMEEL ARIF (@jameelarif)
I want to thank to my entire team for their believe in me and to everyone else who has helped in making this dream come true. We will continue to be a strong and effective voice for the residents of Toronto and cover all interesting stories from all over the world. I hope you will enjoy the content of this issue and do share your feedback with us to help us improve TorontoPages and make it your favorite magazine. Till next time...
CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Amel Zaouali Dr. Nazia Nausheen Jim West Jose Berrocoso Latifa AlHazza SALES TEAM Altaf Hussain
JAMEEL ARIF Chief Editor
www.thetorontopages.com Instagram: @thetorontopages For all enquiries: thetorontopages@gmail.com
COPYRIGHTS & DISCLAIMER
Copyright © 2022, All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photography or illustrations without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. The publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations. Views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the magazine and accordingly, no liability is assumed by the publisher.
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66 AUTOMOBILE
84. All-Electric Rolls-Royce Spectre Concludes Winter Testing 55Km From Arctic Circle
ART & CULTURE
14. Paperchase X Poppy's Papercuts
Collaboration 16. Three Designers Selected For Muse’ S First Spirit Of Ecstasy Challenge
FEATURE
8. Tommy Hilfiger Launches Podcast With The Fashion And Race Database
32. Notorious Cannabis Brand Dominates
Market, Expands Operations
HEALTH
24. Dermatographia
INTERVIEWS
10. Peter Jackson Releases New Single 54. Writing Movie Wrongs 72. New April Releases
28. Amel Zaouali 40. Remenkimi 48. Hello Kirsten 56. Alyshia 66. Mahyar Amiri
FASHION
TRAVEL
ENTERTAINMENT
34. Mellow Yellow - Fashion Editorial 74. The V.gan Way. 76. Ralph Lauren Debuts F/W 2022 Collection 78. Launch Of The Bioceramic Moonswatch 80. Marina Rinaldi SS 22 - Pastel Denim 82. Tommy Hilfiger Presents The Spring Edit
18. Full Of Life 46. A Room With A View 62. The 10 Best Restaurants In Chicago To Eat At
REGULARS
90. Horoscopes 92. Homework For Grownups
ISSUE: 1 - APRIL 2022
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TOMMY HILFIGER LAUNCHES PODCAST WITH THE FASHION AND RACE DATABASE TO HIGHLIGHT THE BLACK COMMUNITY’S CULTURAL CONTRIBUTIONS THROUGH FASHION “The Invisible Seam: Unsung Stories of Black Culture and Fashion,” hosted by fashion educator Kimberly Jenkins, explores moments in history when Black Americans demanded respect, challenged norms, built community and imagined the future — all through what they wore.
Tommy Hilfiger, which is owned by PVH Corp. [NYSE: PVH], announces the launch of a five-part podcast series, titled The Invisible Seam: Unsung Stories of Black Culture and Fashion, which seeks to highlight the overlooked contributions of Black culture and communities, to expand the narrative around the history of American fashion. The series has been developed through Tommy Hilfiger’s People’s Place Program in partnership with The Fashion and Race Database and Audacy’s Pineapple Street Studios. The Invisible Seam launches on April 20, 2022, everywhere podcasts are available and new episodes will be released weekly on Wednesdays, through May 18. Listen to the trailer and follow the series 8 APRIL, 2022
here. “We are all responsible in shaping a future that is truly equitable for BIPOC creatives,” said Tommy Hilfiger. “It’s incredibly meaningful that some of the most notable voices in fashion have come together to bring this podcast to life. It’s a necessary step to acknowledge, recognize, share and celebrate Black contributions in defining modern fashion and culture.”
May 4, 2022: STATEMENT PIECE: A deeper exploration into Black America’s connections with fashion and the relationship between what we wear and what we believe. With guests Miko Underwood (Founder and Chief Creative Director at OAK & ACORN), Angela Tate (Women’s History Curator at the National Museum of African American History and Culture), Elizabeth Way (Associate Curator at The Museum at FIT) and Richard Thompson Ford (Professor and Author).
The Invisible Seam: Unsung Stories of Black Culture and Fashion will feature compelling interviews with expert guests, including designers, academics, fashion historians, museum curators, stylists and artists. It’s hosted by Kimberly Jenkins, a consultant, Assistant Professor of Fashion Studies at Ryerson University in Toronto, Canada, and Founder and Lead Researcher of The Fashion and Race Database.
May 11, 2022: THE BEST, THE BRIGHTEST, THE DRESSED: This episode dives into how Historically Black Colleges and Universities have used fashion to show that Black culture is a mosaic, and to position Black Americans as tastemakers and leaders in what the world wears. Guests include Ceci (Costume Designer), Jasmine Guy (Actress and Singer), Darnell-Jamal Lisby (Fashion Historian and Curator), Monica L. Miller (Professor and Author), and Elizabeth Way (Associate Curator at The Museum at FIT).
“Tommy Hilfiger’s partnership with The Fashion and Race Database is a gamechanger, because it shows what’s possible when industry leaders listen and collaborate with those of us doing the work to educate and advocate for a more diverse and socially responsible fashion system,” said Kimberly Jenkins, Founder and Principal Researcher, The Fashion and Race Database. “Fashion education and research is often isolated in the fashion system, so I hope that other fashion brands will take notes from what Randy Cousin and the Tommy Hilfiger People’s Place Program are producing with us.
May 18, 2022: THERE WILL BE NO MORE DOORS: In a world where Black artistry continues to be the blueprint for what the everyday person wears, we look to the future for inspiration in the present and as a way to make sense of the past. With Connor McKnight (Designer), Law Roach (Image Architect), Brandice Daniel (CEO and Founder of Harlem’s Fashion Row), Randy Cousin (SVP of Product Concept and the People’s Place Program at Tommy Hilfiger), Ade Samuel (Celebrity Stylist), Letesha Renee (Head Designer and Owner at Eugene Taylor Brand) and Aria Hughes (Editorial Creative Director at Complex Networks). The series is closed out by Zairion Lester, a fashion student and emerging designer who shares a forwardlooking perspective.
“When we talk about representation and equity, it is important to recognize that fashion history as we know it rarely depicts the stories and contributions of BIPOC communities that formed the backbone of our industry,” said Randy Cousin, SVP Product Concepts and People’s Place Program. “The work that Kim and her team have been doing to bring marginalized history to the forefront is so crucial and meaningful, and it truly aligns with our mission for the People’s Place Program. Together, we want to amplify the work and influence of the uncredited trailblazers in fashion and culture, both from the past and the present. We envision the podcast to be a learning resource and a means to create further dialogue around change, not just within our brand but with the rest of the industry as well.”
The People’s Place Program was launched in July 2020, drawing inspiration from Tommy Hilfiger’s very first store of the same name, which he opened in 1969 in his hometown of Elmira, NY. The program amplifies the company’s efforts and dedication of resources to increasing opportunities and visibility for underrepresented communities within the global fashion and apparel industries. The platform acts on these commitments through three pillars — Partnerships & Representation, Career Support & Industry Access, and Industry Leadership — with the objective to achieve meaningful, long-lasting change. For more information about Tommy Hilfiger’s social and environmental sustainability journey visit sustainability.tommy.com.
The episodes and guests include: April 20, 2022: NO BLUEPRINT: Sets the scene and establishes the root and reason for the show, with guests Jeffrey Banks and Romeo Hunte (Designers), and Ceci (Costume Designer).
Friends and followers of the brand are invited to join the conversation on social media using #TommyHilfiger, @TommyHilfiger and #TheInvisibleSeam.
April 27, 2022: RHYTHM & MUSE: A look into how the hip-hop community built its look on the margins of an unwelcoming fashion industry, before it became as universal and sought-after as it is today. Featuring Monica Morrow and Boz Bradshaw (Stylists), April Walker (Designer), and Elena Romero (Assistant Professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology [FIT] and TV Correspondent).
Visit https://global.tommy.com/en_int/collection/ detail/-the-invisible-seam to learn more about The Invisible Seam: Unsung Stories of Black Culture and Fashion podcast. 9
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peterjackson905 peterjacksonmusic.ca
9-0-NICKEL ENTERTAINMENT’S PETER JACKSON RELEASES NEW SINGLE AND MUSIC VIDEO “MOUNTAIN VALLEY” FEATURING TREY SONGZ Mountain Valley” will premiere on BET Soul, eTalk & CHR Radio nationwide. Award-winning rapper and iHeart Radio Future Star Winner, Peter Jackson is thrilled to release his new single and music video, “Mountain Valley featuring Trey Songz”. Notable for his pop/ hip-hop track “On a Wave”, Peter Jackson has become a rising North American hip-hop artist who has collaborated with some of the best recording artists in the business. During the span of his impressive career, Jackson has toured with some of the world’s leading hip-hop artists such as French Montana, Sean Kingston, 50 Cent, Akon, Juicy J, Waka Flocka, Jadakiss, Machine Gun Kelly, Wu-Tang Clan, Akon, Snoop Dogg, Busta Rhymes, D-Block and more. The album and single is now available on all streaming platforms including Apple Music and Spotify. 10 APRIL, 2022
This year, Peter Jackson is making waves with the release of “Mountain Valley”, in collaboration with Virginia-born contemporary R&B singer Trey Songz. Peter Jackson looks to recreate the success of Marvin Gaye’s 1967 classic duet, “Ain’t no Mountain High Enough”, with his own new modern day take on the hit.
helped me do that, so, in return, seeing this song come out as the album's first single and really succeeding means absolutely everything to me." said Jackson of the release. Along with the new song, "Mountain Valley" will be released with video support directed by Shawn Thomas of Canadian Film Coalition. The vibrant and energetic clip was shot over the span of a few days between Los Angeles and Malibu, California, and comes as Jackson's first visual offering since tapping Jim Jones for "Fell" back in February 2021.
Produced by KeanuGoinStoopid, JBat, and Pilot Beats, “Mountain Valley” is an upbeat track that features a slick production beat and vocals, and is the first of several new singles on the way to support Jackson's next album, slated for the second quarter of 2022.
Peter Jackson's new album In God’s Hands will be his first project since releasing his 23 & A Half EP in June 2020. Along with Trey Songz, it will feature 2021 BET Hip Hop Award-winner Yung Bleu, and more.
The song is about believing in yourself, and remembering that no matter what you dream of, no mountain is too high. It's a testament to Jackson's self-made success in the entertainment business, and his ability to overcome the obstacles that have been thrown in front of him, no matter how big the challenge.
About Peter Jackson Over the past several years, 9-0-Nickel Entertainment CEO Peter Jackson has established himself as one of the hardest working rappers in Canada, and an independent force in navigating the trenches of the modern music industry.
"It started as just a gift for my mentor and friend, but he saw it as a lot more, and wanted to see it come to life for me. I've spent this last year working on myself and bettering my life. Music will always be first and foremost to me, but I had to get my mind, and soul correct. My mentor
Known for his intense work ethic—in the studio, boardroom, and on the road—Jackson has 11
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spent the past few years touring Canada and Europe with some of the biggest artists in hiphop, and performing at some major events on the national stage. He served as the supporting act for 50 Cent at the 2017 Calgary Stampede, performed alongside Fetty Wap at the 2019 Grey Cup celebrations, and was on a Canadian arena tour as the supporting act for international icon, Snoop Dogg. In 2019, Jackson headlined his first solo tour across Canada, while also doing 22 shows across Europe with Fetty Wap that same year.
lead single, "If It's You," racking up over 5 million streams across all digital streaming platforms, and pulling in over 1.1 million views on the accompanying video. Along with some other big singles in his catalogue—including "Hold Up" with YG and Mazze and "Can't Get Enough" featuring Jadakiss, Sheek Louch, and Styles P of The Lox, and Jay Vado— Jackson has also found success through his support for the Toronto Raptors. During the Raptors' 2017-2018 playoff run, Jackson spent five weeks on the Billboard charts with his We The North EP, peaking at number three on the Top 100 in Canada behind fellow Canadians, Drake and Justin Bieber. Jackson also made appearances on all of the major Canadian news networks to perform and promote the anthem and sold over
Touring (and also booking tours for other artists through his own agency) has evidently kept Jackson busy, but he's still found time in his schedule to drop a string of chart-topping releases.
In addition to being Virgin iHeart Radio's Future Star for April 2019, Jackson's Married to Success single "On a Wave," charted well across the country on Canadian Hit Radio (CHR), and reached the #29 spot on Billboard's Top 100. His 2019 album, Canadian Boy, debuted at #1 on iTunes and Apple Music's Hip Hop/Rap chart, featuring seven songs and six videos, with over 1 million streams and more than 2 million views. Just over a year later in June 2020, 23 & A Half would debut at #1, with the Fetty Wap-assisted
30,000 copies across the country. In recent years, Jackson has seen an increase in press coverage on major platforms and has also been recognized officially several times for his accomplishments. Over the past few years, Jackson has been awarded various Canadian Urban Television Awards including Music Video of the Year (2018) and Director of the Year (2017) for "On a Wave," Event Promoter of the Year (2017), Collaboration of the Year (2017), Mixtape of the 12
APRIL, 2022
Year for Good Company, Music Video of the Year for "Havana" (featuring Waka Flocka Flame), Rap Album of the Year (2015) for Since I was 16, and Album of the Year (2016) for Two Sides to a Story. Jackson has also been nominated for Hip Hop Artist of the Year at the Independent Music Awards.
of his next album, In God's Hands, expected mid-2022. Promotions for the album will officially kick off on Feb. 11 with the release of the album's lead single, "Mountain Valley," featuring contemporary R&B hitmaker, Trey Songz. The KeanuGoinStoopid, JBat, and Pilot Beats-produced record is a modern day take on the classic duet "Ain't No Mountain High Enough."
After generating a buzz in 2021 the Jim Jonesassisted "Fell," and the cross-continental video pulling in over 230K views, Jackson's 2022 campaign started off on a high note with the release of "Hundred Roses." The single would become his latest release to claim a #1 spot on iTunes, and set the stage nicely for the release
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Paperchase x Poppy's Papercuts Collaboration Paperchase has teamed up with Poppy’s Papercuts, a Brighton based illustrator specialising in papercutting, to offer a colourful and innovative collection of stationery and lifestyle items that champion female empowerment, wellbeing and support while showcasing the papercutting art that Poppy is so well-known for. The collection will be available to shop in stores and online at paperchase. com from the 13th February 2022.
“My friendships have always been really important to me. That mutual love and adoration you have for those who have held you up in dark times. I wanted to channel that incredible feeling you have when someone you love is cheering you on.”
Poppy, Poppy’s Papercuts. 14 APRIL, 2022
This 17-piece collection includes colourful and inspiring mantras such as ‘On a Mission’, ‘Togetherness’ and ‘Soft & Strong’ on a variety of items from notebooks and water bottles to a stickers and a scrapbook. These signature phrases champion themes that are even more prevalent as we approach International Women’s Day (8th March). Prices range from £4 to £18.The Paperchase x Poppy’s Papercuts collection has also been thought about from a conscious stance. All single use plastic packaging has been removed from the packaging and the material used for fabric pieces such as the shopper tote are RPET, a material made from post-consumer waste such as plastic bottles.
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THREE DESIGNERS SELECTED FOR MUSE’ S FIRST SPIRIT OF ECSTASY CHALLENGE
“The process of selecting three designers for the Spirit of Ecstasy Challenge was an inspiring one. We were delighted with the range and quality of submissions, leaving us feeling optimistic about the future of textile design. The work of the nominated designers demonstrates a compelling mix of experimental and traditional; handson process and industrial technology; as well as nuanced design thinking and the capacity to respond intelligently to a brief. The Spirit of Ecstasy Challenge is about celebrating the bridge between tradition and innovation, and all the designers we selected understand how humans are connected to our surroundings. The three winners also bring forth ideas that touch deeply on important challenges of our time.” Spirit of Ecstasy Jury Statement
“We are delighted to announce the three talented designers chosen to participate in Muse, the Rolls-Royce Art Programme’s first Spirit of Ecstasy Challenge. Reviewing the design proposals was a fascinating process and we were presented with ideas that were forward-thinking and surprising. “At Rolls-Royce, innovation informs every aspect of our design process, and this is what really stood out in the proposals of the three chosen designers. We look forward to supporting Bi Rongrong, Ghizlane Sahli and Scarlett Yang, and in bringing their designs to life.” Anders Warming, Director of Design, RollsRoyce Motor Cars 16
APRIL, 2022
Muse, the Rolls-Royce Art Programme, today announces the three winners who will participate in the inaugural Spirit of Ecstasy Challenge. Bi Rongrong, Ghizlane Sahli and Scarlett Yang were chosen by an international jury of leading design world individuals. The Spirit of Ecstasy Challenge is a new biennial initiative that invites emerging design visionaries to create unique works inspired by Rolls-Royce and the Spirit of Ecstasy, the sculptural figurine that adorns the bonnet of every Rolls-Royce motor car. Each edition of the Challenge will focus on a different medium and related field of practice. The 2022 edition will focus on textile, challenging participants to explore the possibilities of material and push the boundaries of textile design. The jury consists of Anders Warming, Director of Design, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars; Yoon Ahn, Creative Director of AMBUSH and Director of Jewellery at Dior Men; Tim Marlow, Chief Executive and Director at the Design Museum, London; and Sumayya Vally, Founder and Principal at Counterspace Studio, Johannesburg.
WINNING DESIGNERS
Artist and designer Bi Rongrong collects images of architecture and ornaments from urban settings, and through manual or digital processing, transforms them into painting, collage, fabrics, video, and site-specific installation. Her proposal for the Spirit of Ecstasy Challenge builds on her research into the “urban skins” of cities, combined with her practice of layering diverse materials with LED animation. Bi interprets “urban skins” as the surfaces and spaces of a city, for example the ornamental patterns carved on a building, the text from posters on walls, or the vegetation growing on the edges of pavements. Her design will feature imagery sourced from “urban skins” relevant to the Spirit of Ecstasy, incorporating metal and fabric, taking inspiration from materials used in the creation of a Rolls-Royce motor car. Ghizlane Sahli is a textile artist and designer who reuses and recycles materials in her work, drawing attention to critical environmental issues while exploring the beauty of everyday objects. Her proposal for the Spirit of Ecstasy Challenge continues the use of recycled 17 www.thetorontopages.com
material in her practice, elevating these materials by showcasing their potential for functionality and beauty. Sahli will create a suspended sculpture made from recycled plastic, combined with white silk and gold thread, which will be configured to convey qualities of the Spirit of Ecstasy figurine. Scarlett Yang is a multidisciplinary designer with a focus on sustainable innovation, biomateriality and virtual fashion. She explores the intersection of fashion, design, and technology in her work. Yang’s proposal for the Spirit of Ecstasy Challenge continues her investigation into hybridising hand-made craft and industrial technology. The design will incorporate a groundbreaking new material created from algae extract and silk cocoon protein, developed by Yang for the project, resulting in a dynamic textile work. The three winners will be invited to the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, West Sussex, where they will meet the marque’s master craftspeople before completing their creations. The final works will be unveiled later this year, before proceeding on an international tour.
JOSÉ BERROCOSO TRAVEL EXPERT joseberrocoso
Croatia is the perfect mix of the vibrant energy you would expect from a young country and the friendly, relaxed and hospitable ways of the traditional Mediterranean.
FULL OF LIFE
18 APRIL, 2022
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Unique in so many ways, Croatia’s root stem from ancient times and its great cultural wealth tells of a turbulent history going back to the Roman era and continuing through the Renaissance, the baroque period and the Ottoman conquests right up to the present day, all of which is exceptionally appealing to all who visit the country. If we then add the rich cultural heritage, the amazing natural beauty which attracts visitors throughout the year, the 8 national parks, 12 nature reserves and the numerous UNESCO world heritage sites, Croatia truly becomes a country of incredible magnetic attraction. Over 50 music and film festivals that inspire even the most hesitant, many of them at locations that date back to ancient times, when Roman soldiers and emperor were walking along these trails and routes and Ottoman pasas were conquering the territory, when the world’s greatest writers were creating their masterpieces, and kings and dukes came to rest. 20 APRIL, 2022
Croatia’s attractions include beautiful beaches, one of the cleanest seas in the world, secluded bays, lakes and mystical mountain peaks, clean rivers and potable water, fantastic cuisine, prized wines and spirits, and a world-renowned cultural and natural heritage. Croatia’s fertile plains, where freshly-picked fruits are grown which you can taste, the castles, museums and parks, river ports and family farms, freshly-baked bread whose aroma tempts one to try it over and over again.
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Yes, Croatia is all that and so much more. It is home of the necktie, the parachute, the torpedo, the mechanical pencil, the filament light bulb, the world’s fastest electric car and the second oldest film festival in the world, the Dalmatian dog, Marco Polo, one of the oldest cities and parliaments in Europe, the second longest stretch of defensive walls in Europe, the smallest cathedral, the oldest arboretum, and the birth-place of great athletes. It is a country of exceptional strategic significance, a criss-cross of roads that connect the East and West of Europe, a beating artery, a country with a beautiful sea, green mountains, beautiful plains, rich fields and oil deposits. And last but no means least, the Croats themselves! The Croatian people and their kindness are a magnet that keeps drawing tourists back. Sometimes the hospitality of the locals will make you wonder whether you are in your own home or simple, on holiday in Croatia! 23 www.thetorontopages.com
DERMATOGRAPHIA SKIN
DR. NAZIA NAUSHEEN
WRITING
Dermatographia is a condition also known as skin writing. When people who have dermatographia lightly scratch their skin, the scratches redden into a raised wheal similar to hives. These marks usually disappear within 30 minutes. This condition affects approximately 5 percent of the population.
drnaznaush
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no treatment, although they may be advised to avoid scratching and other physical stimuli known to produce symptoms. Staying well hydrated and using a good skin moisturizer is also advised.
Understanding Dermatographia:
Typically, individuals with dermatographia develop wheals within 15 minutes of skin contact. Symptoms usually persist for a period of 15 to 30 minutes, but in severe cases, large wheals develop, and swelling may be present for hours to days.
General measures include avoiding the stimuli that set off bouts of itch, where possible. For example: • Choose comfortable, loose clothing. • Avoid exposure to very hot water. • Pat dry gently after bathing. • If suspicious of a drug cause, consider stopping it if safe to do so.
Causes of Dermatographia:
It is not known why some people develop dermatographia, but the condition is more common in teens and young women. Cases of dermatographia have been linked to infections, certain medications, and emotional stress. Those with skin conditions that increase the desire to scratch, such as dermatitis, are more likely to develop dermatographia.
If treatment is needed, antihistamines usually give good relief from symptoms, Antihistamines may need to be continued daily for at least several months; intermittent therapy is of less value.
Diagnosing Dermatographia:
Because symptoms usually resolve quickly, few individuals with dermatographia are seen in a dermatology clinic. However, those who experience persistent or repeated symptoms are usually diagnosed when a dermatologist observes skin response after moderate pressure is applied in the form of a scratch or stroke.
Dermographism may also respond to phototherapy. Light therapy has shown some efficacy in treating dermatographias, yet most patients relapse within 2 to 3 months of completing therapy. Adjunctive treatment with over the counter vitamin C 1000 mg daily is also found to be helpful.
Treating Dermatographia:
Most patients with dermatographia require 25
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amelzaouali_makeup_artist
Fight Till The End To Realize Your Dreams And Be Unique!
Meet Amel Zaouali A Tunisian born Makep artist living in Italy. Amal began her love of makeup and exhibited an artistic mindset at a very early age but due to her Arab culture and family restrictions, came in the industry only in about two years ago. She prides herself on a balanced skill set of bold glamour, flawless editorial, and clean natural looks. However, her true gift is making her clients realize their most beautiful selves while simultaneously putting them at ease with the entire process. Amel is fascinated by her participation in the fashion week in Vienna, immediately after leaving the Academy. Her story is really inspiring and we really enjoyed interviewing Amel for this special interview for our first issue.
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Please introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Amel Zaouali. I was born in Tunisia and I am 28 years old. I live in San Benedetto Del Tronto in the Marche region of Italy. Before entering the world of makeup for personal reasons related to my family and the Arab culture I worked in other sectors that have given me the opportunity to keep myself going and contributed to my profession and personal growth at work.
Tell us about your education.
One day I decided that my life needed a breakthrough and I have to pursue a dream I have kept in the drawer since I was small of being a makeup artist. So, I enrolled in the makeup academy of Terni in the Umbria region. After completion of the course, I have continued and I am continuing with specialization courses and masterclasses from all over Italy.
Through your journey, what barriers or challenges did you have to face, and how did you overcome these barriers? The only difficulty that happened was that I officially started this path in 2020 during the full pandemic. But, I never gave up despite the great limitations that have been imposed in Italy and ofcourse the cosmetics sector went into strong crisis. Lucky after more than two years now, the sector is beginning to start up again.
How long have you been a makeup artist and how did you get your start in the industry?
What is your favorite makeup brand?
I honestly do not have a favorite brand. I use different types of brands and each of them stand out for their characteristics. I frequently use MAC cosmetics, Danessa, Myricks, Dior, and Charlotte Tilbury.
I have been doing makeup for about two years. I started looking for collaborations with professional photographers and amateurs to create my portfolio. Later, I made a video clip for photographic services, weddings and theater shows. I have to admit that it was a little difficult but I'm very grateful and satisfied as to where I have reached today.
Where do you get your inspiration? Who are some people that have inspired you throughout your career?
When I have to create a makeup in total freedom, I look for inspiration in my everyday life which vary according to my state of mind. A make up artist I am most inspired by is Charlotte Tilbury. I love her style and her products so much.
What do you love most about makeup?
I love it so much when the person I have done makeup on looks in the mirror with moved eyes because you like it and feel more valorized.
What would you have done if you hadn’t been a makeup artist?
How would you describe your signature look, and what is it about your style that sets you apart from other makeup artists?
If I didn't pursue my dream, I would be satisfied with a common job. But, I wanted and expected something more for myself.
My look is glam because I love shiny and well made bases. I care very much of the eyebrows that give me a reference line to make up the rest of the face. I believe that we Makeup Artists distinguish with our own style that is recognizable on the basis of the person, because we are artists and being artists means creating art, diversify but never copy.
How is shooting for camera and lights, different than everyday makeup?
The artificial lights on the set condition the final result of the make up. It is for this reason 28 APRIL, 2022
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What beauty products do you think should be a staple in every woman’s purse?
A beautiful lipstick or glossy lips, a compact powder, a mascara, a pencil, all combined with the need of the opportunity. With these few things you can create a perfect look both for work and for an evening.
Share something you would like the world to know about you
I don't know what the future reserves for me, even if there are more than the opinion that we create the future by ourselves. I like to dream big and I believe an ambitious person, but I am aware that to realize dreams you need to continually get in the game and work hard.
How do you feel being part of the torontopages magazine’s family?
that the care of details and the choice of colors must be carefully done. It would be appropriate for professionals to meet before proceeding to work. The everyday makeup differs from the set because the main factors change which would be lights, shadows, atmospheric conditions that require a different application.
Sincerely, it is the first time that I am interviewed for a magazine. So, I feel very excited and honored knowing that my thoughts and my experiences can be read by someone who could use it as an example in any profession of life.
Your message readers?
How do you keep up with all the new trends and styles?
the
magazine
You should never end to the difficulties of life and fight till the end to realize your dreams and be unique.
I keep updated on trends and styles but I don't like to copy. I like to create and experience new things always. I am specializing in bridal makeup and every day I experience new looks to give inspiration to future brides.
Thank you for giving me this opportunity. Greetings to all readers of this beautiful magazine.
What is your favorite memory of your career so far?
I would not know which experience has excited me more because the works done so far have all been very rewarding and I had the pleasure of working with beautiful models. A memory that fascinated me and that I live intensely with is the fashion week in Vienna because it was my first experience on the field as soon as I left the academy.
What are some common mistakes that women make?
for
beauty
Today's women are very careful to care for their appearance by keeping up with the trends of the moment. The most common error I find is the lack of skin care, which is a fundamental aspect for a successful makeup. It is good habit to care for your skin daily to have better results. 31 www.thetorontopages.com
Notorious cannabis brand dominates market, expands operations – proving there’s light at the end of the tunnel Opens their first Toronto flagship retail store at 1184 Queen Street West
Ghost Drops is opening a new flagship retail store in the heart of Toronto’s Queen West neighbourhood, as it capitalizes on its market dominance. The brand’s rise from the legacy market is unprecedented. Since its launch in Ontario, Ghost Drops is the most-searched cannabis brand on the OCS (Ontario Cannabis Store) website and has the two top-selling premium cannabis products in the market. And the brand continues to rise, with the grand opening of its first store, a hub for cannabis connoisseurs, on April 16 at 1184 Queen West Street. Ghost Drops president and co-founder John Dean Durante says the store opening is monumental for the company and its followers. 32 APRIL, 2022
“We are not launching this store just to have a store,” Durante says. “Our community has been with us since the early days and the goal has always been to provide them the ultimate consumer experience. This store is a place we can connect with our loyal fan base in a very tangible way. Our ambition is clear: we will continue to raise the bar in this space.” The flagship store will carry Ghost Drops’ award-winning cannabis in all formats, alongside ultraselect curated craft flower from other brands, including neverexperienced-before cannabis from partners Ghost Drops is helping to launch. Travis Fleetwood, aka Organik, Ghost Drops creative director and co-founder, says visitors will experience something special. “What we’ve created is unique, aesthetically bold, with expert staff and hand-picked craft products. This store will become a destination for cannabis connoisseurs and a new home for our community. We’re excited to continue curating culture in the heart of the city.” Another unique retail element is a defining collab with 6ix Donutz in the adjoining space. 6ix Donutz is known for its sought-out customizable mini donuts that have become a Toronto favourite. This strategic move allows 6ix Donutz to capitalize on its expansion to brick-and-mortar locations. Ghost Drops’ rapid rise from the legacy market to the top of the legal market is no accident. The brand house does things differently – charting a different course for growth within an industry experiencing well-documented growing pains. While illicit market sales still account for about half of all cannabis in Ontario, and with several high-profile legal market companies recently laying off staff, closing facilities, and merging, Ghost Drops has proven its brand house partnership approach is the way forward. “I believe we’ve broken the mold,” says Ghost Drops CEO Gene Bernaudo. “We are a local Ontario cannabis company that partners with the best breeders and growers. We’re committed to growing this market by converting legacy consumers into legal consumers and by helping elevate other legacy brands into the legal market alongside us. The blueprint we’ve created is working.”
Media are welcome to attend an exclusive invite-only open house from 7-11 p.m. on Friday, April 15. Please email Chrissy Newton, chrissy@vocabcommunications. com to reserve a time and for store images. The dispensary will be open to the public from noon-9 pm on Saturday, April 16. After that, regular hours will be 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., seven days a week. 33 www.thetorontopages.com
Photographer: Uli B ph (@ulibphotography) Model: Baahar K (@baahar.k) Video: Lama (@creatives.by.lama) Stylist: Marianna Sovyk (@sovykk) MUA: Enara Beauty (@enarabeauty) Studio: Mild Studios (@mild.studios)
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remen.kimi
Music Transcends Barriers. If you are a fan of fusion music, we bring you Remenkimi an Egyptian Canadian music artist based in Ottawa. She writes and performs her songs in English, Arabic, French and Spanish. We sat with Remenkimi for this exclusive interview for our readers and discussed about her passion for music and learnt about her upcoming projects. We are sure you will enjoy reading this interview as much as we enjoyed interviewing her.
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Please introduce yourself to our readers.
How would you best describe the type of your music?
My name is Remenkimi, I am an Egyptian Canadian music artist based in Ottawa.
Tell us about your education. I have a background in psychology and medicine.
health
It’s hard to describe since I really like to explore different sounds with each of my releases, but if I were to classify my sound under one big umbrella it would be Urban Pop.
sciences,
What inspires your music?
A feeling, a vibe.. depending on the mood, I really try to make sure that the composition, beat, lyrics, even vocal performance on the track is aligned with the vibe I am trying to convey.
Share some of your childhood memories.
My most cherished memories are my summers spent in the Northern Coast of Egypt. Living by the beach, spending time with my loved ones, the food, the music.. paradise!
What’s the inspiration behind your latest song?
How and when did you get interested in singing? What or who influenced you?
In my last song, I wanted to tell a story; imagine seeing an ex move on with another girl, but find out that his new girl looks/acts exactly like you.. I wanted it to be light hearted but also have the lyrics display the contrast between you realizing that maybe he isn’t fully over you, but maybe you aren’t exactly over him either. I played a lot with these contrasting emotions of strength and vulnerability by transforming the tempo in the end, and going fully “slow motion” in the outro.
I’ve always been involved in music as a child in one form or another: dancing competitions, musical theatre, playing the piano, participating in choirs.. When I was attending medical school, I was missing the artistic element in my life, so I decided to use my study breaks and post music covers online. One thing led to another, I accidentally discovered I could write/compose music… and here we are!
What artists and bands have been "ON REPEAT" on your playlists recently?
In how many languages do you sing?
I write & perform my songs in English, Arabic, French & Spanish.
I have been listening to ROSALÍA’s latest album and obsessing over her unpredictable creativity. 42
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What's a typical creative and writing process like for you? I work from my home studio, when the moment is right, everything just flows.. It is hard to describe, but I have had days where I was able to write 2, 3 songs in a row. Usually I start with a melody, then the melody tells me the story, and that’s when the lyrics start writing themselves.
Are you planning to drop any new album soon? I am planning on dropping an epic album, but that will be for later down the line.
And what's next on the horizon for you? I will keep releasing singles, performing, and growing my fanbase!
How did you feel getting nominated for the “THE 2022 OTTAWA AWARDS”? I was so grateful! To be nominated with the very first song I released and then once more the following year is surreal. These kinds of affirmations mean the world to me; they really help fuel my journey.
What are some of your other hobbies? I love to read and dance. Also, if any activity involves a beach, I will be there.
What is your dream? My dream is to be able to be a successful independent music artist.
Where would you like to perform? Literally anywhere.. I don’t care if it is a big or small crowd, performing is one of my favourite things to do as an artist!
What message do you want to convey through your music? That no matter where you come from, what language you speak, we are all connected. Music transcends barriers.
What advice do you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps? Don’t be scared, everybody starts from scratch. The more you do, the more you’ll know. Start from where you are, be brave and have fun!
Your message for our readers and your fans. If you are still reading this, thank you for letting me be a part of your day! Please follow your dreams :)
Your message for us at TorontoPages (TOPS)? Thank you for having me on your platform, I wish you the absolute best! 45 www.thetorontopages.com
A ROOM WITH A VIEW Hyde Hotel Dubai: JOSÉ BERROCOSO TRAVEL EXPERT joseberrocoso
SLEEP FACING DUBAI’S ICONIC BURJ KHALIFA, THE TALLEST TOWER IN THE WORLD! The newly opened Hyde Hotel Dubai is the first international property outside of the US. Ideally situated in Business Bay, the property offers 276-keys with a prominent location overlooking the Dubai Canal and Promenade and breathtaking views of the Dubai skyline. With a unique view of the Burj Khalifa, Hyde Away offers 48 square-metres of charming luxury that accommodates up to two guests plus one child. Complete with an accesible balcony, the room features all the exclusive elements of Hyde Signature King Bed, HD TV, Malin+Goetz for Ciel Spa Bath amenities, a larger bath and minibar curated with Hyde signature items.
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hello.kirsten hellokirsten.com
The Artist bringing pattern-mixing to walls and surfaces worldwide. Meet Hello Kirsten - an artist and muralist living in Toronto. She is known for making bright, patterned artworks that aim to bring joy to people’s lives. Her art practice is multi-disciplinary, but revolves around a central goal: to produce work that is well-crafted, visually appealing, and meaningful. She has been creating murals and public art installations for over a decade, in cities spanning the globe. Hello Kirsten's work has been exhibited at the Shanghai International Arts Festival, Toronto's AGO, Montreal's Musée des Beaux Arts , and the Sea Wall’s Love Letters Festival (Toronto), and has appeared in numerous publications, including Fast Company, Juxtapoz, Canadian Art, The Globe and Mail, The Walrus, and Bust. 48 APRIL, 2022
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Please introduce yourself to our readers.
What is your favorite medium for producing your art? Digital or physical?
Hi! I’m Hello Kirsten, an artist and muralist living in Toronto. I make bright, patterned artworks that aim to bring joy to people’s lives. My art practice is multi-disciplinary, but revolves around a central goal: to produce work that is well-crafted, visually appealing, and meaningful. I truly believe that art is for everyone, and utilize color and pattern to evoke feelings of joy, curiosity, and belonging. I view my murals as allegories for a particular time and place, one that speaks not only to who has passed through and who is here now, but also who might come in the future. I have been creating murals and public art installations for over a decade, in cities spanning the globe. My art has been exhibited in the Art Gallery of Ontario (Toronto), Montreal's Musée des Beaux Arts, and many private galleries, and has appeared in festivals such as the Yorkville Murals Festival, Pangeaseed’s Seawalls, and The Shanghai International Arts Festival. I have painted large-scale murals for clients such as Facebook, Cirque du Soleil, Converse, The W Hotel, and lululemon.
Half and half. I find it’s easiest to paint a mural if I have a fully-rendered digital image to work from. However, in my studio practice I really prioritize play and chance, and don’t incorporate digital elements much at all. I find it’s too easy to be a perfectionist and hit the undo button digitally. Real life forces you to accept mistakes and embrace happy accidents.
Can you describe your studio? What’s the most indispensable item in your studio?
I have a lovely little studio in Toronto’s West End. It’s a small room that used to be a store. My favourite quality is the giant windows and all the natural light. Sadly, the Toronto real estate market strikes again, and I just found out that the building is being sold, which almost certainly means I’ll be evicted. So, I’m considering moving away, but haven’t finalized plans yet. Toronto is a really hard city for artists to live in. I was renovicted from my last studio as well, when the landlord decided they wanted to court a larger corporate client and kicked all of the small artists out.
Tell us about your education.
What are your favourite materials to use?
I have a BFA from Concordia University, but started out with a Diploma from a small art college (Grant MacEwan in Edmonton).
I’m absolutely in love with latex house paint. I’ve spent the last year learning how to adapt acrylic paint so it functions more like latex (as the downside of latex is that it’s really not archival). 51
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What are some of your biggest achievements so far?
pop-sensibility of bright colours and engaging aesthetics to engender curiosity.
My biggest achievement to date is the mural I painted in Facebook’s Toronto office in 2018. It starts on the walls and covers a huge area of the floor. Painting on the floor was something I hadn’t done before and it was so much fun. How do you overcome creative blocks? I’ve never had a creative block. I always have ten million ideas and not enough time.
What are some of your other hobbies?
I’m really into dancing, raves, camping, reading, hiking, playing with my dog, saunas, and cooking healthy food. Pre-pandemic I travelled a lot and am really looking forward to getting back into exploring the world.
Your favourite quote?
Why are patterns? When & How did you discover that patterns would be part of your art?
When it's over, I want to say: all my life I was a bride married to amazement. I was the bridegroom, taking the world into my arms.
My art plays with pattern. Pattern, in the form of repeating decorative motifs, is a ubiquitous form of human expression. Many designs are so distinct they instantly call to mind a particular culture or region, while other patterns occur over and over again throughout history and in many places. They hint at early trade routes and the ways in which cultures have mixed and mingled for millennia.
When it's over, I don't want to wonder if I have made of my life something particular, and real. I don't want to find myself sighing and frightened, or full of argument. I don't want to end up simply having visited this world. —Mary Oliver
My murals and public art installations are research-based and driven by the needs and histories of the communities in which they are located. In addition to painting and murals I have a strong background in design and a deep appreciation of architecture. Public art can inspire communities to engage with their surroundings in new ways. My work employs a
Tell us more about the Papirmass project?
Papirmass was the world’s first art subscription. Every month for 12 years we mailed a print by a new artist to subscribers. It came with a bio of the artist, an interview with them, an inspiring creative quote, and a creative colouring activity. 52
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We mailed hundreds of thousands of prints all over the world, expanding the reach of art into so many unexpected places. I’m forever grateful to our loyal subscribers and the many artists who let us share their work with the world. We closed in 2020.
Your message for us at TOPS (Toronto Pages). See more at hellokirsten.com and @hello.kirsten
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The Batman Directed by Matt Reeves Written by Matt Reeves and Peter Craig
JIM WEST jimwestauthor
Batman has been one of the largest media franchises in DC Comics history. Akin to the hype over the actor to don the tuxedo for James Bond, the list of actors to wear the cape and cowl is quite impressive. Adam West, Michael Keaton, Val Kilmer, George Clooney, Christian Bale, Ben Affleck, and now Robert Pattinson. Best known for the Twilight series, Robert has typically been cast in roles that make use of his stoic presence on camera. Perfect for a dark and gritty Batman film. Fans have long waited for a Batman that hearkens back to it’s detective comics roots as Batman being a great detective. This film brushes along those ideas, but I feel they missed a huge opportunity to generate repeat viewings. I hope to that point I find out I am wrong and would welcome something more ‘meta’ from these writers.
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Here comes the spoilers. Right off the bat we are thrown into a creepy voyeur watching a family through their windows. We then see it is the city mayors home. The serial killer calling himself The Riddler (Paul Dano) brutally murders the mayor and starts off a series of messages and clues for Batman to solve. The Riddler continues to kill people associated with a cover-up crime from years ago that involve the Wayne family. Bruce Wayne (Pattinson) with help from his loyal butler, Alfred (Andy Serkis), work tirelessly to decipher the clues and crack the riddles left behind. Batman crosses paths with Selina Kyle (Zoe Kravitz) aka Catwoman whose roommate is missing due to a connection to the mayor. They team up to gather information, but soon butt heads over her relationship to Carmine Falcone (John Turturro). Batman chases down some leads to Penguin (Colin Farrell), but finds out he was wrong and the main person he is supposed to track down is Falcone. Bruce discovers a family secret that resulted in the murder of a reporter that was covered up, and following events led to the murder of his parents. Here is where I think we needed more emotion from Pattinson and perhaps show some madness under the guise of control for this character. Two years of fighting crime in what is played as a crusade by himself, you begin to wonder where is Bruce Wayne among this nearly three hour runtime? Sure he makes an appearance during a public memorial service for the Mayor, but that is it. Previous Batman films always try to balance out the duality of the man and the mask. I think this
film needed to show more of the man and not the mask. Best scene is when Batman is facing The Riddler at Arkham and he thinks The Riddler know he is Bruce Wayne. That was written perfectly. When he comes to realize the Riddler doesn’t know is perfect. Otherwise the film has some nice brutal fight sequences and the darkness doesn’t distract too much from the action. A small issue I take is when you see Pattinson shirtless you see wounds and scars. What you don’t see is muscles. Did the suit augment his strength? Again some missed background details to help suspend the disbelief a bit better. Some flashbacks to his training, his two years of fighting crime in Gotham, and events that drove him to who he is at the point of this film would help tremendously to connect to him as a character. Now the biggest issue I have with a film about riddles and clue would be why not insert some hidden messages for eagle-eyed fans. Messages like Easter eggs for upcoming DC films and references to other characters. Things that would significantly raise the repeat viewing factor to catch all these clues. Turn the audience into detectives themselves would be a superb meta move by the writers. I hope I am wrong and they did indeed do such a thing. Regardless this film will be praised as a smashing success and hopefully we get to see a few more with some character growth for the caped crusader. 55
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agirl.enroute agirlenroute.com
A Girl En Route
Meet Alyshia - A Girl En Route. Alyshia describes herself as a maple syrup loving, poutine eating Canadian who runs from the snow any chance she can get. Her passion for photography and travel writing grew into what is now her travel blog, A Girl En Route. Alyshia has travelled to over 25 countries. We sat with Alyshia this month to know more about her, her blog, and her passion for travelling.
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Hi, please introduce yourself to our readers
advice and recommendations
Hi, I’m Alyshia! I’m a maple syrup loving, poutine eating Canadian who runs from the snow any chance I can get. When I was 16, I took a trip to Poland with my grandpa to visit his hometown Tomaszów, Lubelski. A countryside Polish village – population: 12 chickens. It was my first real trip abroad where I navigated pierogies and Żywiec and ultimately fell head over heels with travel. My passion for photography and travel writing grew into what is now my travel blog, A Girl En Route. I’ve spent the past decade sharing personal experiences, photography and travel tips across my blog and social media and I’ve been lucky enough to travel to over 25 countries. I spent the last four years living my tropical sock-free dream in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam and just recently I’ve settled back home here in Toronto!
What social media platforms do you use to engage with your followers and why?
I mainly use Instagram to engage with others because it’s the easiest platform to communicate and build friendships! I also use Facebook, Pinterest, Wordpress and TikTok, but Instagram has always been the bread to my butter in terms of connecting!
How do you keep yourself updated on the latest trends and locations to visit?
I am constantly scouring Pinterest and Instagram for the latest trends and inspiration. My fellow travel bloggers also give me endless amounts of inspiration and wanderlust when it comes to travel. My never ending bucket-list of locations to visit is thanks to them!
Please share top mistakes you’ve learnt from your journey as a Blogger.
Tell us about your education.
I have an Undergraduate Degree in Health Science from Western University in London, Ontario as well as a Master of Arts in Educational Studies from Concordia University in Montreal, Quebec. I moved back to Canada in September to pursue a Bachelor of Education at York University, which is currently where I am studying.
The top mistakes I’ve learned from being a blogger are: 1. Post it. At a certain point, I had to realize that perfection is a construct, it doesn’t exist, and I had to get my content out there and not over analyze it. 2. Choosing a blog name that didn’t resonate with an audience or niche. Before choosing A Girl En Route I used variations of my name which didn’t help to represent my unique point of view. 3. How I was writing. I needed to learn to write what people were searching for, that’s what brings in the traffic.
How and when did you decide to become a blogger?
I've always had a love for writing. English was my favourite subject in elementary school and on the weekends I’d force my parents to listen to my openmic short story performances. Later, when I realized I could pair travel, photography and writing altogether it seemed like my worlds collided. It felt destined that my hobbies transformed into my travel blog over the years. My love for sharing, writing and photographing my travels was never something that wavered and is still something I’m passionate about today!
Blogging is increasingly becoming competitive. Do you think it will be a good choice for newbies to opt for blogging in the coming years?
I think if you are passionate about sharing your experiences through writing, then you should blog about it! Even if the market seems competitive, you never know who might be listening, who might resonate with your voice and who you might find a connection with!
At what point did you begin to gain tons of followers, and how did that feel?
Your photos are amazing. Who takes your photos?
In 2017 I packed two bags and hopped on a plane to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam for what I thought would be one year abroad. Little did I know, I would be calling Saigon home for the next four. Living in Vietnam was what really helped to kickstart my following. I wanted to showcase Vietnam for all of its beauty and I think that’s what drew the crowd. I loved that people were enjoying my photos as much as I was and were inspired to travel to Vietnam. That made me extremely happy!
Thank you! I do take all of my own photos, but sometimes my friends and family will step in and help me get that perfect angle!
What has been one of your favourite travel moments?
If I had to choose just one, I would say my motorbike trip through Vietnam’s northern province was definitely a highlight. High in the mountains of Vietnam lies the sleepy town of Ha Giang where the roads wind through breathtaking mountains, terraced rice fields and valleys of beautiful wildflowers. My 4 day road trip was full of unforgettable turquoise canyons, narrow winding passes and some of Vietnam’s beautiful Ethnic Minority tribes, this backroad road trip was a total dream come true for me!
How would you best describe what you do?
The best way to describe what I do is a mixture of travel writing, content creation and photography. My blog, A Girl En Route is my space to share advice, hacks and adventures to help inspire others to book that trip or spark some excitement to visit that local cafe!
Where have you travelled outside of Canada?
If you were to list top 5 reasons for your success as a blogger, what would those be?
I’ve been to Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Iceland, New Zealand, Australia, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, Portugal, Greece, Poland, Germany, Monaco, Italy, Netherlands, Spain, France, England, Dominican Republic, Cuba, Austria, Mexico and the USA.
If I had to list five reasons why I might be a successful blogger, I would say that: 1. My adventurous side pushes me to explore new foods, cultures, countries and experiences which allow me to share what I do online 2. I have a good eye when it comes to photography 3. I love editing and post-production, my patience levels when it comes to this are top notch 4. I always like to tell stories with my photos and videos and make my readers feel like they came along for the ride. 5. I’m honest and matter-of-fact when it comes to my
What have you learned about yourself while blogging?
Through blogging I have really been able to lean into my passion for writing, traveling and photography. Traveling has challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone, experience life in a totally different way and learn from the new cultures I encountered. Blogging allows me to take what I’ve learned and write! Writing 59
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is a powerful tool because it helps you understand who you are and what it is you want. Through travel writing I’m able to constantly learn about myself and it provides me with a constant urge to continue learning!
Because the accommodation was in the middle of a huge national park it meant that all generators were shut off at “lights out.” No electricity, just darkness. Let’s just say it was not the ideal time for my stomach to conk out and I spent the next 8 hours hanging over the small porta-potty heaving and spewing my life away. The best part? The toilet, which wasn’t much of a toilet and it was actually just a hole leading straight down into the water. As my poor sister held her phone light above me, I watched the tiny fish come up and eat the remains of my dinner.
Can you please share with us a “day in the life”?
My days tend to range between blogging, creating content and doing course work.
When did you start landing brand sponsorships and what do you think made that happen?
I started landing brand sponsorships while I was living in Vietnam. I would be invited to check out cute cafes, dreamy hotels and beautiful restaurants where my photography helped promote the brand and the experience they were looking to portray. I think my ability to take photos and share my experience in depth on Instagram and my blog helped me to land partnerships that worked with what A Girl En Route is all about!
In general, what are biggest dreams in life?
your
My biggest dream has always been to experience as many countries as possible. I want to eat a real bunny chow in South Africa, swim with the island pigs in the Bahamas and pick my jaw up off the floor when I go to Jordan to see Petra in real time. I would love to live and teach abroad again and one day, hopefully, write and publish a book.
What are the 3 most stunning places that you have ever visited in Toronto?
Tell us your Favorite quote(s).
This is so hard to narrow down! The three most stunning places I’ve visited in Toronto would have to be:
“We have more possibilities available each moment than we realize” Thich Nhat Hanh “A good person can make another person good” Bhumibol Adulyadej
1. Kensington Market 2. The Aga Khan Museum 3. Rosalinda Restaurant
What do you do when you are not writing or working on social media?
When I’m not writing or working on social media you can usually find me cafe hopping or eating my way around the city! I’m also always working on my courses to finish up my Bachelor of Education, so right now that takes up a lot of my free time.
Do you feel that blogging takes time away from your social or family life?
No, I don't feel blogging takes time away from my social and family life. If anything, it gives me an opportunity to go out with the people I love most and spend time with them experiencing new places! My friends and family are always keen on an adventure, even if it’s for the purpose of my blog!
What are some of your other hobbies?
I really love cooking and trying out new recipes when I have some spare time. Last week I made bánh xèo, which is a crispy and savory Vietnamese pancake and you know what, it was almost as good as the real thing! I also love a good at home D.I.Y. Currently, I’m renovating my cottage and there’s just something so satisfying about being able to say I did that myself.
Do you have any funny travel or blogging stories?
One of my funniest travel stories, which in hindsight is funnier now, was on a backpacking trip in Thailand with my sister. We had spent the entire day getting from Bangkok to Khao Sok National Park where we checked into our floating hotel in the middle of the gorgeous park. It was beautiful and we were beyond excited to be there. We arrived just in time for dinner and the cooks loaded our plates with mountains of deliciousness. After dinner we sat on the dock, just soaking in the happiness we felt being there. When it was time to turn in, my stomach no longer felt the same.
Your message for us at TOPS (TorontoPages).
Thank you so much for having me and taking the time to share my experiences! It’s so important to see and hear the voices of others in the community! I’m looking forward to reading all of your interviews, stories and publications! 61 www.thetorontopages.com
THE 10 BEST RESTAURANTS IN CHICAGO TO EAT AT
LATIFAH AL-HAZZA
Where would you dine if you only had one night in the Windy City? The culinary grandeur of the unofficial capital of the Midwest should not be underestimated. This is your guide to a few of the best edible delights Chicago has to offer.
tifahtravels
Andros Taverna
Husband and wife team, Hsing Chen (former French laundry pastry chef) and Doug Psaltis (former RPM executive chef) joined forcesh to open Andros Taverna, an incredible Greek restaurant. Located in Logan Square, the restaurant is spacious and bustling with diners. Andros has delicious shareable plates, perfect for any setting.
Recommendations: Griddled Cypriot Halloumi: If you’re a cheese connoisseur, this one is for you… and we are sure it won’t disappoint.
Octopus: Tender and a little charred with meaty tentacles soaking in lemon and olive oil.
Prawn Saganaki: Prawns bathing in rich, delicious, tomato sauce with bits of
feta and dill. Pair it with soft sesame village bread or the fluffy pita bread that is hand-stretched and made to order. Turbot: Turbot Tuesday showcases some of the freshest sea catches to arrive at Andros for the week. Andros is determined to change the seafood industry through sustainability and by purchasing from local small boat suppliers and not large, conglomerate fishing operations. Chef Doug utilizes the entire fish with his menu and dishes. By purchasing and utilizing the whole fish, Andros will either butcher the fish in-house, serve the dish whole, or use what remains of the fish to create flavorful stock or sauces. Baklava Froyo: This frozen yogurt is topped with crispy baklava crumbles, pistachio sauce, and a drizzle of raw local honey. It has the perfect amount of sweetness and is truly amazing.
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Coal Roasted Beets: A great appetizer to begin with, the
beets are served with kajmak (cheese), pistachio, and honey.
Baby Octopus ‘Peka Style’: The octopus is cooked low and
slow in a metal dish over an open fire. This makes it, and the potatoes it is served with, very tender and flavorful with garlic and pepper sauce. Crni: This creamy squid ink risotto is in rich lobster stock and topped with confit squid. Tortellini Djuvec: Delicious pasta with red pepper, eggplant, zucchini, Parmigiano, and pine nuts. Porcini Agnolotti: Rich pasta with Parmigiano, brown butter, and fresh shaved white truffle. Pistachio Gelato: End the evening on a light but refreshing note with this pistachio gelato drizzled with honey
Etta
This is the kind of spot where you’ll want to order everything, and you’ll be disappointed by nothing. The food here is rich and flavorful. Etta has also been labeled as Bib Gourmand in the Michelin Guide for good quality food and good value cooking.
Recommendations: Fire Baked Focaccia: Order the one with honey-sweetened
ricotta.
Ricotta Pillows: These ricotta-filled dumplings are drenched in a light truffle sauce. Burrata: This drool-worthy burrata is served with red onion jam, kabocha (squash), pear, pistachio, arugula, and basil. Garganelli Pasta: This not-to-miss pasta is marinated in heirloom cherry tomatoes, olive oil, burrata, and basil. Ricotta Agnolotti Pasta: Another rich and delicious housemade pasta with butter-poached lobster, smoked pumpkin, shiitake, and pepita. Wild Mushroom Pizza: There are usually six pizzas on the menu – five staples and a seasonal option. All are tasty and all come with a chewy, bubbly crust, but the wild mushroom (a staple) is a must. It comes with melted onions, goat cheese, black truffle, and raclette (cheese).
Perilla
A Bib Gourmand in the Michelin guide, Perilla’s buzzy yet cozy Korean American street fare setting offers a variety of dishes suitable for all types of diners (read as: vegetarians as well).
Recommendations:
Kimchi Pancake: There are three types of pancakes; scallion, kimchi, and seafood. All are crispy and light. Blistered Shishito Peppers: These peppers are charred, come with hazelnuts and fried anchovies, and have a sweet sauce that gives the spice a good balance. Steamed Egg: Perilla’s is a large bowl of light and fluffy steamed eggs, with dashi, green onion, and sesame.
Rose Mary
Zazas Pizzeria
Top Chef winner, Joe Flamm created a masterpiece when he created Rose Mary. The food is mostly Croatian, but many dishes have Italian influences. From great service to the considerate coursing (only dishes that complement each other arrive at the same time ), you’ll be frustrated that you don’t have room to try everything on the menu.
Zazas Pizzeria offers a selection of nine specialty New York-style pizzas. Pizzas are offered by the slice for lunch and whole pies for dinner. All pizzas are made with a brushed crust containing olive oil infused with garlic and rosemary with finishing salt on top.
Recommendations: White Pie: Topped with garlic, olive oil, whipped ricotta,
Recommendations:
mozzarella, and basil on sesame seed crust.
Truffle Mushroom Pie: Shiitake mushrooms, rosemary,
Stracciatella: This dish changes seasonally, it may come
garlic truffle cream, goat cheese, and sea salt.
with strawberries or with an apple mostarda or with something completely different. But one thing that remains the same is the fluffy lepinja (Balkan flatbread) it’s served with.
Hot Soppressata Pie: A delicious, sweet, and spicy
pizza topped with fennel oil, hot honey, chili flakes, and Parmigiano. 64
APRIL, 2022
La Josie
La Josie has a rooftop deck and serves great Mexican food.
Recommendations: Guacamole: Made with fresh Michoacán avocados and served with corn & flour tortilla chips. Elote: Oven-roasted corn, pico de gallo, roasted habanero, cilantro, and elote salt. Mango Ceviche: Fresh Hawaiian yellowfin ahi tuna, mango leche de tigre, jicama, red onion, chile Fresno, grilled mango, avocado, habanero salt, and cilantro. Pescado a la Parilla Tacos: Grilled, citrus and garlic marinated fresh Baja striped bass, chile pasilla, Morita salsa, grilled mango, jicama, Fresno chile, and onioncilantro slaw.
Yuzu Sushi and Robata Grill
Yuzu is known for its massive, colorful, and artistic sushi rolls. They look cool and taste good.
Recommendations: Takoyaki: Octopus doughballs topped with sweet mayo,
sweet soy sauce, bonito flakes, and seasoned nori. Sounds weird but don’t knock it until you’ve tried it! Dragon Roll: With shrimp tempura, avocado, and unagi. It’s presented with a dragon drawn out of colored spicy mayo. Udon Noodle Soup: The perfect noodle texture with bellywarming broth and mixed tempura.
The Publican
The Publican specializes in meat and oysters. The Publican has high ceilings, wood furnishings, and communal tables. The Publican is heavy on the meats, but try to include a little bit of seafood and veggies in your order.
Recommendations: Mussels: A stone pot full of mussels bathing in a buttery, mouth-watering broth.
Fries with Fried Egg: Pretty self-explanatory. Duck Hearts: Sounds scary but try it. They come with
Alla Vita
mushrooms, ricotta, and some toasted bread. Whole Chicken with Frites: A menu staple – it’s a juicy, whole bird over a bed of fries.
Alla Vita has it all, a gorgeous dining room and delicious food. The restaurant is decorated with hanging plants, string lights, and an overhead art installation.
Recommendations: Wood-Fired Bread: This crusty loaf is topped with taleggio, orange blossom honey, and black pepper. Pizza: There are around five pizza options, and we recommend the Margherita with tomato sauce, Fior di latte, and basil or the truffle mushroom with black truffle, caramelized onion, and taleggio. A bonus is that the woodfired crust is chewy. Mafaldine: Homemade pasta with prawns, calamari, Calabrian chili, and garlic breadcrumbs. Lasagna: This savory dish consists of wild mushroom Bolognese and fontina, layered with fresh pasta and a rich marinara sauce.
Kasama
Kasama, a Filipino restaurant in Ukrainian Village, is a superb go-to spot for anything from pastries to meats.
Recommendations: Chicken Adobo: Sweet and tangy chicken, pickled papaya,
and garlicky rice… what more could you ask for? Berry Creme Fraiche Cheesecake: This is possibly the lightest cheesecake you’ll ever have. It has a soft graham crust and is topped with a light berry sauce. 65 www.thetorontopages.com
itsmahyar notart.ca
“MAKE LOVE NOT WAR.”
Toronto-based fine and mixed-media artist, Mahyar Amiri, is raising awareness for the war between Russia and Ukraine with his latest mural, “MAKE LOVE NOT WAR.” Images of it have been shared online by several Ukrainian celebrities, including film director Alan Badoev and actress Irina Soponaru. Mahyar is making waves through the Toronto art scene as one of the only silkscreen and glass neon artists in the province. What started as a hobby quickly blossomed into a career. Creating all pieces by hand, Mahyar is inspired by the works of Banksy and Andy Warhol. Read our exclusive interview with Mahyar and learn more about this great artist.
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Please introduce yourself to our readers.
Hello, my name is Mahyar Amiri. I’m 25 years old and I’m from Toronto.
Tell us education.
about
your
I studied engineering at Western University and dropped out after 2 months. I ended up taking business at York U and finished with a bachelor of commerce.
How would you best describe your style of art?
I would describe my style of art as pop and modern art.
Where do you take inspiration for your work?
I take inspiration from everything that I come across. This includes seeing things from social media, walking through a mall, taking a stroll downtown, and even playing video games. Unfortunately, is something that hard working people can appreciate.
my occupation is a curse in a sense where no matter where I go I’m always thinking of art and how I can make my next piece or how to improve my style, so no matter wherever I go and whatever I do I always find inspiration.
What are your favourite materials to use?
My favourite materials to use is cotton canvas, glass neon and hand-picked mix media, such as vintage comic books.
What is your favorite medium for producing your art? Digital or physical?
What artistic process goes into creating your work? Can you take us through your process from concept to final work?
All my works are physical and my favourite medium would be using glass neon and silkscreen.
Well, everything begins with an idea. Once I have an idea, it’s almost like a puzzle that I must solve. So I begin to ask myself, what material do I use? What is the process for creating the artwork? Do I use acrylic or oil paint? Do I need a helper? There are many variables that I must ask myself to map out a project appropriately and efficiently. Eventually I create the final work and begin thinking of the next project.
Can you describe your studio? What’s the most indispensable item in your studio?
My studio is my home. I’m very grateful to have a space where I can make whatever I can think of and it’s a place where no one can judge me and tell me I’m doing something wrong with my practice. I think my most indispensable item would be my mop and my PS3. I need a mop because without a clean and organized work environment I don’t think I would be able to focus and create artwork. My PS3 is also my most indispensable item because it keeps me sane. Whenever I over work myself and stay in the studio for 12+ hours I can always finish the day with playing video games. I think keeping organized, clean, sane and not forgetting to have fun
What are some of achievements so far?
your
biggest
Some of my biggest achievements so far is finding my passion, commercializing my passion, and being able to be independent.
How do you overcome creative blocks?
I come from an engineering background, 69
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passion. Those would be my favourite murals.
Tell us about the largest silkscreen art you created “Ali”. How did the idea come up?
The ALI silkscreen was inspired by the industry that I’m in. Starting out in the business I would fall victim to comparing myself with others until I quickly realized that that is not the way to do business, or anything in life. As a result, I made the ALI silkscreen to depict how you’re only competition is yourself to becoming a better version of yourself. Whether you’re in business or you’re going to the gym. It’s always you vs. you, it always has been and it always will be. where we have to solve complicated physic equations and structural integrities of bridges, so a creative block usually is the least of my problems Hahahaha. Nonetheless, I don’t force anything to happen, I know the idea will usually come to me through experience of maybe seeing something outside or coming across something within the studio that may spark the final element to complete a concept for one of my artwork ideas. Sometimes looking back, I appreciate when I didn’t rush into ideas because later on, I see how much it could have been improved. I hope that answers your question.
Did you have any solo exhibitions for your work? Pre pandemic I did host two solo shows in my own gallery that I opened up, and I also had a solo show in a art gallery in downtown Toronto.
Do you sell your art or only take commissioned work?
I sell my own inventory of work that are comprised from the Series that I’ve release, and I also do commission work for clients.
What message do you want to convey through your art?
Each piece has its own meaning, but I’m not sure if they all have a message for the viewer. That depends on the viewer.
How do you feel being the only silkscreen artist in Toronto? What makes silkscreen so unique and different?
Being one of the only Silkscreen artists in Toronto, I don’t feel anything in particular, I just feel like I’m going to work and doing my job. Silkscreen is unique because it is difficult to achieve as a practice. You have to have the right ink viscosity, squeegee blade, squeegee angle, pressure, speed, flat work table, temperature, a well exposed screen, a large work space and the list goes on. It’s a difficult and expensive practice, which makes it very unique and different than other mediums
What are some of your favorite murals across Toronto?
Some of my favorite murals across Toronto are the ones that are really high up on a mid-rise / high-rise building. I hate heights, so when I see people going up so high to execute a mural I can really appreciate from afar and respect the artist. That’s 70 APRIL, 2022
What is the biggest challenge of being an artist?
Your message for our readers. It’s never too late to start. Just do it, and embrace every success and mistake, because without them you never learn. Don’t forget to have fun.
Remembering that Saturday and Sundays are the weekend and not work days.
What are some of your other hobbies? Some of my other hobbies are playing video games, exercising, swimming.
Your message for us at TOPS (Toronto Pages).
Your favourite quote?
Thank you for having me on TOPS, I hope I answered all your questions.
With great power comes great responsibility.
WW3. Created for Blunt and Cherry, this is inspired by the events of COVID-19. It shows how the pandemic is similar to a world war as every one across the globe is affected by it. To highlight the pandemic, Mahyar chose to replace the flag with the mask, as many countries have turned to masks to aid in spreading the virus.
REVOLUTION. This mural was inspired by the Taliban’s takeover of Afghanistan in August of 2021. It features two boys. One holds the Afghan flag as a symbol of rebellion, while the other holds a tire and doesn’t play with it, representing the tension of the situation.
MONANA. Mahyar uses this piece to express his creativity, mixing in old art (Mona Lisa) with new art (duct taped banana this was a wall display at Miami Art Basel). 71 www.thetorontopages.com
NEW APRIL RELEASES The Wedding Crasher
Mia Sosa
The Man Who Invented Motion Pictures: A True Tale of Obsession, Murder, and the Movies
Just weeks away from ditching DC for greener pastures, Solange Pereira is roped into helping her wedding planner cousin on a random couple’s big day. It’s an easy gig... until she stumbles upon a situation that convinces her the pair isn’t meant to be. What’s a true-blue romantic to do? Crash the wedding, of course. And ensure the unsuspecting groom doesn’t make the biggest mistake of his life. Dean Chapman had his future all mapped out. He was about to check off “start a family” and on track to “make partner” when his modern day marriage of convenience went up in smoke. Then he learns he might not land an assignment that could be his ticket to a promotion unless he has a significant other and, in a moment of panic, Dean claims to be in love with the woman who crashed his wedding. Oops. Now Dean has a whole new item on his to-do list: beg Solange to be his pretend girlfriend. Solange feels a tiny bit bad about ruining Dean’s wedding, so she agrees to play along. Yet as they fake-date their way around town, what started as a performance for Dean’s colleagues turns into a connection that neither he nor Solange can deny. Their entire romance is a sham... there’s no way these polar opposites could fall in love for real, right?
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The year is 1888 and Louis Le Prince is finally testing his “taker” or “receiver” device for his family on their front lawn. The device is meant to capture ten to twelve images per second on film, creating a reproduction of reality that can be replayed as many times as desired. In an otherwise separate and detached world, occurrences from one end of the globe could now be viewable with only a few days delay on the other side of the world. No human experience—from the most mundane to the most momentous—would need to be lost to history. In 1890, Le Prince was granted patents in four countries ahead of other inventors who were rushing to accomplish the same task. But just weeks before unveiling his invention to the world, he mysteriously disappeared and was never seen or heard from again. Three and a half years later, Thomas Edison, Le Prince’s rival, made the device public, claiming to have invented it himself. And the man who had dedicated his life to preserving memories was himself lost to history—until now. The Man Who Invented Motion Pictures pulls back the curtain and reveals the riveting story of both Louis Le Prince’s life and work, dispelling the secrets that shroud each. This captivating, impeccably researched work presents the never before told history of the motion picture and sheds light on the unsolved mystery of Le Prince’s disappearance.
Left on Tenth: A Second Chance at Life
Lessons in Chemistry
Take My Hand
Bonnie Garmus
Dolen Perkins-Valdez
Delia Ephron
The bestselling, beloved writer of romantic comedies like You've Got Mail tells her own late-in-life love story, complete with a tragic second act and joyous resolution. Delia Ephron had struggled through several years of heartbreak. She’d lost her sister, Nora, and then her husband, Jerry, both to cancer. Several months after Jerry’s death, she decided to make one small change in her life—she shut down his landline, which crashed her internet. She ended up in Verizon hell. She channeled her grief the best way she knew: by writing a New York Times op-ed. The piece caught the attention of Peter, a Bay Area psychiatrist, who emailed her to commiserate. Recently widowed himself, he reminded her that they had shared a few dates fifty-four years before, set up by Nora. Delia did not remember him, but after several weeks of exchanging emails and sixties folk songs, he flew east to see her. They were crazy, utterly, in love.
Chemist Elizabeth Zott is not your average woman. In fact, Elizabeth Zott would be the first to point out that there is no such thing as an average woman. But it's the early 1960s and her all-male team at Hastings Research Institute takes a very unscientific view of equality. Except for one: Calvin Evans; the lonely, brilliant, Nobel-prize nominated grudge-holder who falls in love with--of all things--her mind. True chemistry results. But like science, life is unpredictable. Which is why a few years later Elizabeth Zott finds herself not only a single mother, but the reluctant star of America's most beloved cooking show Supper at Six. Elizabeth's unusual approach to cooking ("combine one tablespoon acetic acid with a pinch of sodium chloride") proves revolutionary. But as her following grows, not everyone is happy. Because as it turns out, Elizabeth Zott isn't just teaching women to cook. She's daring them to change the status quo.
Unlikely Animals Annie Hartnett
Montgomery, Alabama 1973. Fresh out of nursing school, Civil Townsend has big plans to make a difference, especially in her African American community. At the Montgomery Family Planning Clinic, she intends to help women make their own choices for their lives and bodies. But when her first week on the job takes her down a dusty country road to a worn down one-room cabin, she’s shocked to learn that her new patients are children—just 11 and 13 years old. Neither of the Williams sisters has even kissed a boy, but they are poor and Black and for those handling the family’s welfare benefits that’s reason enough to have the girls on birth control. As Civil grapples with her role, she takes India, Erica and their family into her heart. Until one day, she arrives at the door to learn the unthinkable has happened and nothing will ever be the same for any of them.
Unmasked: My Life Solving America's Cold Cases by Paul Holes
But this was not a rom-com: four months later she was diagnosed with AML, a fierce leukemia. In Left on Tenth, Delia Ephron enchants as she seesaws us between tears and laughter, navigating the suicidal lows of enduring cutting-edge treatment and the giddy highs of a second chance at love. With Peter and her close girlfriends by her side, with startling clarity, warmth, and honesty about facing death, Ephron invites us to join her team of warriors and become believers ourselves.
Delia Ephron Bestselling author and screenwriter Delia Ephron's most recent novel is Siracusa. Her other novels include The Lion Is In and Hanging Up. She has written humor books for all ages, including How to Eat Like a Child and Do I Have to Say Hello?; and nonfiction, most recently Sister Mother Husband Dog (etc.). Her films include You’ve Got Mail, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, Hanging Up (based on her novel), and Michael. Her journalism has appeared in The New York Times, O: The Oprah Magazine, Vogue, and Vanity Fair. Her hit play Love, Loss, and What I Wore (co-written with Nora Ephron) ran for more than two years off-Broadway and has been performed all over the world. She lives in New York City.
Natural-born healer Emma Starling once had big plans for her life, but she's lost her way. A med school dropout, she's come back to small-town Everton, New Hampshire to care for her father, dying from a mysterious brain disease. Clive Starling has been hallucinating small animals, as well as visions of the ghost of a long-dead naturalist, Ernest Harold Baynes, once known for letting wild animals live in his house. This ghost has been giving Clive some ideas on how to spend his final days. Emma arrives home knowing she must face her dad's illness, her mom's judgement, and her younger brother's recent stint in rehab, but she's unprepared to find that her former best friend from high school is missing, with no one bothering to look for her. The police say they don't spend much time looking for drug addicts. Emma's dad is the only one convinced the young woman might still be alive, and Emma is hopeful he could be right. Someone should look for her, at least. Emma isn't really trying to be a hero--but somehow she and her father set in motion just the kind of miracle the town needs. Set against the backdrop of a small town in the throes of a very real opioid crisis, Unlikely Animals is a tragicomic novel about familial expectations, imperfect friendships, and the possibility of resurrecting that which had been thought irrevocably lost.
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From the detective who found The Golden State Killer, a memoir of investigating America’s toughest cold cases and the rewards-and toll--of a life solving crime. I order another bourbon, neat. This is the drink that will flip the switch. I don’t even know how I got here, to this place, to this point. Something is happening to me lately. I’m drinking too much. My sheets are soaking wet when I wake up from nightmares of decaying corpses. I order another drink and swig it, trying to forget about the latest case I can’t shake. Crime-solving for me is more complex than the challenge of the hunt, or the process of piecing together a scientific puzzle. The thought of good people suffering drives me, for better or worse, to the point of obsession. People always ask how I am able to detach from the horrors of my work. Part of it is an innate capacity to compartmentalize; the rest is experience and exposure, and I’ve had plenty of both. But I had always taken pride in the fact that I can keep my feelings locked up to get the job done. It’s only been recently that it feels like all that suppressed darkness is beginning to seep out.
There is another way
the V.GAN way.
We started our vegan footwear company in 2018 with a passion to provide animal friendly shoes and boots and we have quickly established ourselves as one of the most fashion forward in the vegan community. Indeed, our vegan ranges are now sold around the world including the US, Canada and Australia. You do not have to harm an animal or the planet to have great looking shoes and boots.
PETA approved vegan products. Whether you are thinking about joining the vegan revolution, new to it, or have been following a plant-based lifestyle for years, they are designed for everyone to wear. By wearing and supporting our little brand you are helping to spread the important vegan message throughout the communities you live in.
There is another way – the V.GAN way.
We also care for the environment and sustainability. At V.GAN we believe any goal of sustainable development and production is to meet the needs of today without compromising the needs of tomorrow. That is why we use zero plastic and glue in our recycled packaging and fabrics made entirely from ocean waste. Our vegan leathers are high quality, vegan certified and are also eco-friendly.
Our entire range is free of all animal products and workers in our vegan approved factories are protected by employment and safety laws. We are an animal and human friendly company. However, you do not need to be a vegan to enjoy our
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Ralph Lauren Debuts The Fall/ Winter 2022 Collection
Ralph Lauren debuts The Fall/Winter 2022 Collection with an intimate show at The Museum of Modern Art on Tuesday, March 22nd in New York City. Sleek architecture and sculptural design, beautiful objets d’art, and breathtaking views of the city skyline create an inviting environment for a coterie of interesting guests to come together once again and be immersed in the fashion, hospitality, and allure that encapsulates the world of Ralph Lauren. “My Fall/Winter 2022 Collection is a celebration of the timeless style of black and white emboldened in the sleek lines of tailored silhouettes for both men and women. As we come back together, I wanted to share it in an intimate environment within the iconic beauty of The Museum of Modern Art in New York City.” — Ralph Lauren 76 APRIL, 2022
The Fall/Winter 2022 Collection explores the bold, yet refined color palette of black and white, punctuated by pops of red for a touch of romance. Ralph Lauren celebrates the charm of personal style through this season of Women’s Collection and Men’s Purple Label, where details become the truest form of selfexpression. Iconic furnishings from the Home collection complement the graphic elegance of the evening. Notable guests include Jessica Chastain, Jeremy Strong, Janelle Monáe, Naomi Biden, Finnegan Biden, Lily Collins, Rachel Brosnahan, Angus Cloud, Zoey Deutch, Henry Golding, Isabel May, Evan Mock, Melissa Barrera, Noah Beck, Blake Gray, Amelie Zilber, Luka Sabbat, Kate Bock, Poppy Delevingne, Ella Balinska, Antoni Porowski, Wisdom Kaye, Nic Kaufmann, Xenia Adonts, Sai De Silva, Alex Riviere, Leia Sfez, Ivy Getty. 77 www.thetorontopages.com
Launch of the BIOCERAMIC MoonSwatch
OMEGA has collaborated with Swatch to produce a playful take on its iconic Speedmaster chronograph
The design partnership, a first for OMEGA and Swatch, follows the popular trend of collaborations between luxury and street brands to create innovative new products that blend the best of both worlds. For OMEGA, the joint mission is both a fun undertaking and a respectful nod to the plucky company that risked it all to kick-start the ailing Swiss watch industry during the quartz revolution.
Raynald Aeschlimann, the new collection is a source of pride. “OMEGA’s long and distinguished history may have been cut short if it wasn’t for the vision and the courage taken by Swatch. The MoonSwatch collection salutes the saviours of our industry in a witty and accessible way. The Swatches are perfect for budding Moonwatch fans and I can’t think of a more appropriate icon for our shared project. We went to the moon, now we’re exploring the whole Milky Way. They’re great watches, in fantastic colours and they make me smile.”
The brands have drawn their design inspiration from space, to create a collection of eleven Swatches named after planetary bodies, from the giant star at the centre of the solar system to the dwarf planet at its periphery.
The new collection, in rarely seen colours, is all about giving OMEGA’s professional timepiece a playful twist. Each MoonSwatch features its own mission statement, inspirational engravings and joint OMEGA X SWATCH logos on the dial and crown. The battery cover on each watch features a depiction of its planet.
All of the Swatches are in BIOCERAMIC, a unique mix of two-thirds ceramic and one-third material derived from castor oil. Although colours like pink and pale blue offer strong clues that these are not your standard Speedmaster watches, a hard-core Moonwatch fan would be hard-pushed to find the difference in the overall look. The key Moonwatch design features are all there. The asymmetrical case, the famous tachymeter scale with dot over ninety and the distinctive Speedmaster subdials, which all work perfectly.
A spacesuit-ready VELCRO© strap adds a final touch of astronaut chic. For those wishing to “Reach for the Planets” a MoonSwatch is a great way to lighten up for the journey. The Swatches are only available in selected Swatch stores from 26th of March.
For OMEGA President and CEO Mr. 78 APRIL, 2022
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MARINA RINALDI SS 22 PASTEL DENIM DENIM MEETS PASTELS
Crowd-pleasing, versatile and inclusive in the way it has historically broken down class and gender barriers. Denim is a staple feature of anyone's wardrobe, perfect as it is for informal occasions and suitable, with just a few extra style touches, for more sophisticated events too. The shades of its characteristic blue colour are absolutely timeless but, for SS 22, Marina Rinaldi is using this material in more delicate hues. Thanks to the use of all-natural dyes, the jeanswear range is brimming with pastel colours, including soft shades of yellow, sage green and light pink. A slightly oversized jacket and a Mandarin-collar shirt with drop shoulders and cuffs with a small puff pair with two pairs of trousers. The first pair is wide-legged, hemmed at the ankles and complete with large front pockets, while the second is slightly longer, more snug and complete with the classic five pockets. Everything evokes the fresh feel of nature awakening after the harsh winter period and emphasises, through colour, care for the environment from which the dyes used, all of which are free from chemical agents, originate. The pastel-coloured denim pieces will be available in store and online from January. 80 APRIL, 2022
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Tommy Hilfiger presents the Spring edit
t Smar al u s a C
As we bid farewell to the last traces of winter, embrace the warmer months with an upgrade to your wardrobe from TOMMY HILFIGER’s SP22 collection. Warm and playful colours are brought to life with pops of pattern and relaxed silhouettes. Floral button-down dresses, co-ord sets and strappy summer lace styles are all the rave this season! 82 APRIL, 2022
g Sprin Chic
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ALL-ELECTRIC ROLLS-ROYCE SPECTRE CONCLUDES WINTER TESTING 55KM FROM ARCTIC CIRCLE “The announcement of every new Rolls-Royce motor car carries a great weight of expectation, but Spectre is unquestionably the most anticipated product in the marque’s modern history. This is because it is much more than a product. It is a symbol for our bright, bold electric future, and it represents a seismic shift in our powertrain technology. It is for this reason that we have created a testing programme that is as significant and historical as Spectre itself. The extraordinary undertaking of educating Spectre to think and behave like a RollsRoyce will cover 2.5 million kilometres, which is a simulation of more than 400 years of use for a Rolls-Royce. Today, I can confirm that 25% of this journey is now complete, and the results have met our most ambitious expectations.” Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive Officer, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
“Refining the all-electric drivetrain that underpins Spectre challenges the very definition of engineering. The departure from internal combustion engines allows us to significantly increase the processing power of our individual components and create a Decentralised Intelligence. We refer to this unprecedented era, where we benefit from a multi-control, multi-channel and highly interconnected electronic and electric powertrain architecture, as ‘Rolls-Royce 3.0’. “Our task is to teach each component and system how to think, behave and communicate like a Rolls-Royce, which sees much of the engineering pivot from workshops into the digital space. Here in Arjeplog we have built a significant foundation on which we will create a true Rolls-Royce. This is a big step forward for our brand, but also for electrification – even though Spectre is in its infancy, I can confirm that the technology is able to contain the Rolls-Royce experience.” Mihiar Ayoubi, Director of Engineering, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
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ROLLS-ROYCE SPECTRE: BACKGROUND In September 2021, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars made an historical announcement that it would launch its most important product since 4th May 1904, when the marque’s founders Charles Rolls and Sir Henry Royce agreed that they would create “the best car in the world”. The Rolls-Royce Spectre. While Rolls-Royce has built a reputation for creating what are regularly described as “the best cars in the world” using internal combustion engines, the idea of electrification is something that is familiar to the brand. Henry Royce began life as an electrical engineer and dedicated much of his life to creating internal combustion engines that simulated the characteristics of an electric car – silent running, instant torque, and the sensation of one endless gear. Yet, the connection with the marque’s founders is far deeper. When Charles Rolls drove a 1900 electric car named the Columbia, he made a prophecy: “The electric car is perfectly noiseless and clean. There is no smell or vibration. They should become very useful when fixed charging stations can be arranged”. Spectre is the fulfilment of this prophecy. Spectre also represents a promise kept. In 2011, Rolls-Royce showcased a fully electric Experimental Phantom concept named 102EX. This was followed by 103EX, a dramatic design study that anticipated a bold electric future for the marque. These experimental cars prompted significant interest from Rolls-Royce clients. They felt that the characteristics of an electric powertrain would fit perfectly with the brand. Rolls-Royce Chief Executive Officer, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, responded to this with an unambiguous promise: Rolls-Royce will go electric, starting this decade. In September 2021, Charles Rolls’ prophecy and Torsten Müller-Ötvös’ promise led to an historical moment. Rolls-Royce confirmed that it had commenced testing of the first all-electric Rolls-Royce in history, Spectre. This extraordinary undertaking would be the most demanding testing program ever conceived by Rolls-Royce and would span 2.5 million kilometres, simulating more than 400 years of use for a Rolls-Royce, on average.
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ROLLS-ROYCE SPECTRE: WINTER TESTING A new Rolls-Royce motor car always begins its life in winter. Temperatures at the Bespoke facility used by the marque, located in Arjeplog, Sweden, just 55km from the arctic circle, drop to -26 degrees centigrade and are further cooled to -40 degrees centigrade. There are several reasons for subjecting the marque’s products to such extremes. When the first prototypes are built, engineers perform very basic tests in extreme conditions to ensure that each system is operational and functions at a basic level in a cold weather environment. This test is combined with the beginnings of the refinement process – the first ‘lessons’ in a finishing school that will form the foundations of a motor car worthy of the marque. This begins with processes that are common to the automotive industry such as noise, vibration and harshness tests. The variables that affect this are manifold, spanning from the materials selected for major hardware components to the density of the door rubbers, bushing compounds, fastening materials and even properties of bonding agents. The performance of these variables can change considerably when subjected to extreme temperatures – likewise the efficiency of the motor car’s heating, ventilation, air conditioning and cooling systems. As a true luxury brand, there is an additional component of winter testing that is of great importance to Rolls-Royce. This is defined by the marque’s engineers as ‘de-escalated time’, which enables incredible accuracy and control in creating the Rolls-Royce experience using Spectre’s chassis control systems, powertrain management and electronics control. By driving on low traction surfaces such as snow and ice and wilfully destabilising Spectre, the engineers can create dynamic circumstances at low speeds that would ordinarily occur at high speeds. This can be reviewed and guided in situ and in slow motion, in doing so parametrising and finessing cold-weather vehicle performance in areas such as handling, controllability, stability, predictability and the ‘waftability’ that defines the Rolls-Royce experience. De-escalated time enables engineers to create unparalleled detail in the motor car’s response, in doing so schooling Spectre to think, behave and communicate like a Rolls-Royce worthy of the marque. Following more than half a million kilometres of testing, 25% of this process has now been completed
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ROLLS-ROYCE SPECTRE: ROLLSROYCE 3.0 Rolls-Royce 3.0 represents the beginning of the marque’s bold electric future. The term ‘Rolls-Royce 3.0’ is a reference to the brand’s progress during its renaissance, which began in Goodwood, West Sussex on 1st January 2003. The first Goodwood Rolls-Royce was Phantom, and it was underpinned by its own Bespoke architecture. This was Rolls-Royce 1.0. Following this, a new, highly flexible all-aluminium spaceframe architecture was conceived that could be adapted for multiple applications, including the current Phantom, Cullinan, Ghost and Coachbuild projects. This was Rolls-Royce 2.0. Rolls-Royce 3.0 is the integration of a fully electric power train and Decentralised Intelligence into the marque’s architecture. In component terms, the simplicity of the car has increased significantly. However, the requirement for engineering Spectre – of sending this uneducated car to Rolls-Royce finishing school – is unparalleled. The definition of engineering has changed. Historically, engineering a Rolls-Royce has taken place in workshops. Spectre sees this pivot into the digital space. Spectre is the most connected RollsRoyce ever and each component within it is more intelligent than in any previous Rolls-Royce. It features 141,200 sender-receiver relations and has more than 1,000 functions with more than 25,000 sub functions. By comparison, Phantom has 51,000 sender-receiver relations, 456 functions and 647 sub functions. The dramatically increased intelligence of Spectre’s electronic and electric powertrain architecture enables a free and direct exchange of detailed information between these 1,000+ functions with no centralised processing. While this has required engineers to increase the length of cabling from around 2 kilometres in existing Rolls-Royce products to 7 kilometres in Spectre, and to write more than 25 times more algorithms, it offers a significant step forward for the brand. A dedicated control can be created for each set of functions which enables unprecedented levels of detail and refinement, allowing for what RollsRoyce chassis specialists are already calling “Rolls-Royce in high definition”.
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ROLLS-ROYCE SPECTRE: ARCHITECTURE
The flexibility of Rolls-Royce’s proprietary architecture, which is reserved for the marque’s exclusive use and does not underpin mass market cars, enables the exterior design to carry the scale required to create the presence of an authentic Rolls-Royce. This is plain to see in Spectre’s wheel size – it will be the first coupé equipped with 23-inch wheels since 1926. The flexibility of the marque’s architecture also enabled designers to dramatize the coupé experience. By placing the floor halfway between the sill structures rather than on top or underneath the sills, there is a highly aerodynamic channel for the battery, providing a perfectly smooth underfloor profile. Likewise, this creates a low seating position and enveloping cabin experience. By moving the bulkhead location, designers and engineers have also been able to deepen the dashboard location to truly cocoon passengers. This is amplified with a dramatically low windscreen rake and incredibly efficient airflow profile. This, along with other intelligent design solutions such as an aerodynamically tuned Spirit of Ecstasy mascot, contributes to a drag coefficient (cd) of just 0.26 in early prototypes. The battery location, which is enabled by the marque’s architecture, unlocks another benefit that is commensurate with the Rolls-Royce experience. By creating wiring and piping channels between the floor of the car and roof of the battery, engineers have created a secondary function for the battery – 700kg of sound deadening.
In creating a design for Spectre, a generously proportioned, highly emotional body style was selected. This could only be enabled with the marque’s all-aluminium spaceframe architecture. Indeed, the scale is so far beyond other contemporary coupés that it has been designated an Electric Super Coupé. It is the brand’s belief that there is only one other contemporary product that occupies this space – Phantom Coupé. The marque’s designers consider Spectre to be Phantom Coupé’s spiritual successor. Indeed, when it came to styling Spectre, the marque’s designers considered the dimensions and emotionality of Phantom Coupé, and other grand coupés from Rolls-Royce’s past. Not only did they create this emotion with Spectre’s fastback silhouette and size, but they also carried forward a key design feature of Phantom Coupé: the iconic split headlights, a design tenet that Rolls-Royce has owned for many decades. This design typology was selected in consultation with the marque’s clients, who found the idea of a Phantom-scale Electric Super Coupé highly appealing. However, the decision to pursue this aesthetic was also strategic. Leaders within the brand wanted the first fully electric Rolls-Royce to be highly emotional, something that shows that electric powertrain technology can deliver on the promise of such grand, seductive and compelling styling. While Spectre represents an historical moment for Rolls-Royce, it is also an historic moment for electrification – the technology is now able to contain the RollsRoyce experience.
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ARIES
CANCER
(March 21 - April 19)
(June 21 - July 22)
Prioritizing yourself this month should be, well, a priority! With the sun traveling through your sign, you should be looking for ways to push your agenda because the universe is in the mood to lend a helping hand. Follow your intuition whenever it speaks to you, dear Aries, especially if it pertains to your personal life or public image.
This month, you could find yourself on the receiving end of more leadership opportunities at work as the Aries sun lights up the sector of your chart that governs career. Taking the reins when no one else wants to can help you gain the support and trust of your supervisors, though you might need to touch base with your assertive side.
Though you’ll be feeling as ambitious as ever, it’s important that you carve out plenty of time for self-care, especially once Venus enters Pisces on April 5. This planetary placement can be particularly healing for you but only if you put in the time to nurture yourself. Running away from rest or even your feelings can backfire during this time, so you’ll need to be proactive about going within and tapping in to your emotions. Luckily, these vibes can be extremely inspiring, helping you see the path ahead with more clarity and creativity.
If you’re feeling stuck in your profession, this energy could also drum up impatience on your end, especially if your superiors have failed to deliver on any promises they made to you earlier. Don’t be afraid to ask for fair compensation or a promotion if you’re due one, dear Cancer, even if negotiations make you uncomfortable. You’ll feel an internal shift when passionate Mars enters watery Pisces and your solar ninth house on April 14. This planetary placement can inspire you to follow your intuition with more trust, especially if it ignites the fire within you. However, try not to act impulsively, tempting as it may be. You still need to balance your third eye with good sense.
The fourteenth marks another significant shift for you as your ruling planet Mars enters your solar twelfth house. Use this energy to pull back from making big moves in favor of flying under the radar and planning your next great adventure. Look upon this astrological period as a bit of a “calm before the storm” as your mind, body, and soul gear up for a whirlwind of activity next month. Mars will enter Aries on May 2, giving you permission to pull the trigger on everything you’ve been meditating on throughout April.
The Libra full moon manifests on the sixteenth, bringing harmonious energy to your home life while asking you to take a step back from the grind in favor of some rest and relaxation. This cosmic climate is meant to act as a moment of reprieve for you, making it important that you focus on yourself and the people you care about most. These vibes are also perfect for meditation and self-care, especially if it’s been a while since you embraced your inner zen.
TAURUS
LEO
(April 20 - May 20)
(July 23 - August 22)
You might feel a little more irritable this month, dear Taurus, because the Aries sun brings its fiery and primal energy to the sector of your chart that rules the subconscious. These vibes can be particularly troublesome if you don’t get enough alone time, so make sure you’re taking plenty of breaks from socializing in order to recharge between work and personal engagements.
Sparks of inspiration will light a fire within you this month as the Aries sun burns brightly in your solar ninth house. These vibes are poised to take you on a few journeys of the mind, though you might feel prompted to pack for some physical exploration as well. Whether you’re daydreaming at your desk or embarking on an adventure, give yourself permission to let go of what’s expected of you. Just don’t allow this sentiment to go too far, dear Leo. You still need to take care of your work and responsibilities.
If you feel yourself growing increasingly impatient with someone, it might be wise to step away for a few minutes and calm yourself in the fresh air. A dedicated meditation practice can also work wonders for you right now, giving you a chance to stay grounded amid the cosmic funk.
Your intuition is also set to receive a nice boost from this solar placement as the universe looks for ways to guide and communicate with you. However, your third eye could begin to frustrate you when the Libra full moon manifests in the sector of your chart that rules communication and thought processes on April 16. This cosmic climate could put you at a crossroads as Luna has you romanticizing your future while Pluto confronts you with the harsh logistical reality surrounding such dreams. Don’t feel disheartened by the work that lies before you. Instead, break it down piece by piece.
You’ll begin to feel more grounded and like yourself beginning when the sun enters your sign on April 19. This solar placement acts like a salve to your soul, helping you let go of any issues that arose earlier in the month. If you come to the realization that you owe someone an apology for your short fuse, try to get it in when communicative Mercury blows a kiss to optimistic Jupiter on the twenty-eighth.
GEMINI
VIRGO
(May 21 - June 20)
(August 23 - September)
You’ll be jumping from one social engagement to another this month, dear Gemini, as Aries season lights a fire in your solar eleventh house. These vibes could also inspire you to pick up a new extracurricular activity, especially if it involves taking a class at a local studio or community college.
April will act as a breath of fresh air for you, dear Virgo, because the Aries sun burns brightly in the sector of your chart that governs personal transformation. These vibes are perfect for starting over and eliciting change as the universe encourages you to leave behind any situations, habits, or people you’ve outgrown. Luckily, this solar placement also gives you the motivation and bravery you need to upend your life a bit, especially if it’s in the name of your soul’s evolution.
Just try not to get too carried away by your ambitions right now, or you could end up attempting to do too many things at once. Before you agree to attend a party, enroll in a course, or add an extra brunch to your already packed weekend, stop to think about whether or not you actually have the bandwidth to do so.
Your love life is set to benefit from some celestial support beginning when Venus enters Pisces and your solar seventh house on April 5. This cosmic climate bestows a softness upon the collective, helping you melt any walls that have kept you away from your heart’s desire. Opening up will feel more organic than usual, giving you and anyone you’re involved with a chance to connect in new ways. These dreamy vibes are also perfect for self-love, making it important that you appreciate yourself just as much as you would the object of your affection.
After a whirlwind start to the month, you’ll begin to feel a bit more closed off once the sun moves into Taurus on April 19. This solar placement encourages you to slow down, especially if you’ve been feeling stretched thin. This energy could also impact your desire to communicate, since solace will seem more appealing than even a one-on-one with your bestie.
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LIBRA
CAPRICORN
(September 23 - October)
(December 22 - January 19)
April kicks off with Aries season in full swing, dear Libra, bringing a serious dose of heat to your romantic life as the sun travels through your solar seventh house. If you’re in a committed relationship and the vibe has cooled a bit since you first met, now would be the time to ramp up the heat once more. Trying new things with your significant other can work wonders for your bond, helping you rediscover what you love about one another and rekindling your mutual passion.
Get ready for a busy month at home, dear Capricorn. The Aries sun breathes life into your solar fourth house, inspiring you to take on all the domestic projects you’ve been putting off until spring’s arrival. Meanwhile, Venus, Mars, and Saturn continue their journey through the sector of your chart that governs finances and your connection to the material realms, giving you permission to spend a little cash on your surroundings. Though you tend to be fairly reserved with your spending, don’t feel guilty about splurging on new interior design accents. The universe wants you to spoil yourself a bit!
If you’re single, this cosmic climate is absolutely perfect for putting yourself first, so be sure to practice plenty of self-love and self-care. However, if you’re hoping to find a connection, there’s definitely a celestial possibility that you could meet someone new, though you’ll need to put yourself out there.
Unfortunately, your ruler Saturn is locked in a harsh t-square with the lunar nodes throughout the month, which could leave you feeling a bit restricted in your creativity and movements. Don’t push yourself to revamp your space (or your life, for that matter) if you’re not totally into it.
Venus, your ruling planet, enters compassionate Pisces on April 5, asking you to loosen the reins a touch within your day-to-day life. If work-related pressure has been weighing heavily on your shoulders, you might need to take a few days off and maybe treat yourself to a massage. If you feel your stress level rising, this cosmic climate makes it easier for you to release and cope with such feelings, but you’ll need to give yourself permission to let go.
There could also be a sense that your friends are moving on with their lives while you’re stuck standing still, but try not to stress yourself out over it. Capricorns are known as the late bloomers of the zodiac, which means you’ll peak just as everyone else around you seems to be hitting a slump.
SCORPIO
AQUARIUS
(October 23 - November)
(January 20 - February 18)
Strange things could happen to your energy level this month, dear Scorpio, because the Aries sun is traveling through the sector of your chart that governs health and wellness. There will be many times when you feel energized, motivated, and ready to take on the day. However, this boost to your vigor could be fleeting if you don’t pace yourself, making it important that you maintain a healthy balance between movement and rest.
Your mind will be eager for new knowledge this month, dear Aquarius, as the sun and Mercury make their way through Aries and the sector of your chart that governs learning and curiosity. However, don’t feel like you have to focus all your brainpower in one area, this energy should be used to explore a broad range of topics, or you could get bored attempting to master one specific subject. Have fun with your thoughts and play with new ideas, but don’t commit to any of them unless you’re called to do so at a deep level.
You’ll also want to gauge how much time you spend assisting others. This solar placement can put you in a helpful mood, but you should consider what you already have on your plate before adding tasks that aren’t actually your responsibility.
The vibe shifts when the sun moves into Taurus and the sector of your chart that governs the home on April 19. This energy is perfect for updating your space, especially if you’ve been meaning to redecorate. You’ll also feel more called to enjoy the comforts of your home most evenings, opting for a cozy night in rather than a crazed night on the town.
Your creative juices begin to flow when your ruler Mars enters Pisces and your solar fifth house on April 14. Allow this energy to move through you by embracing an artistic outlet of your choice. If you’ve been fantasizing about getting a new passion project off the ground, this is prime time to do so. The universe is looking for ways to reward your motivation and ambition.
However, that doesn’t mean you need to go into hermit mode. Inviting your friends over for game or movie nights is a great way to marry this cosmic climate with your naturally social demeanor.
SAGITTARIUS
PISCES
(November 22 - December)
(February 19 - March 20)
When it comes to organizing get-togethers with your friends, you might need to take the reins this month, dear Sagittarius, because the Aries sun illuminates the sector of your chart that rules creativity, self-expression, and fun. Blowing off steam feels essential to your mental health right now, prompting you to rally your nearest and dearest for an adventure or two.
Avoid spending recklessly this month, dear Pisces, or you could end up blowing your budget before you even have a chance to assess it. With Aries traveling through the sector of your chart that governs money, it would be easy for your bank account to hit an uncomfortable low, especially if you don’t remain centered and practical. Even tiny impulse purchases while waiting in line at the grocery store can begin to add up, making it important that you use financial discernment at all times.
While you can certainly benefit from rejuvenating your lust for life, try to keep in mind that not everyone is where you are physically or emotionally. The Aries energy circulating right now has a different impact on each person, and it could bring out aggressive behavior in others if you try to shift their focus in a direction that doesn’t align with their current priorities. Extend invitations to your friends if you want to see them, but don’t take it personally if they choose to apply their energy elsewhere.
Luckily, this energy can also help you gain money quickly, especially on April 17, though you’ll need to strike while the iron is hot. If an opportunity arises to make some scratch, you should try to decide quickly whether you want to take it on or the job will likely pass to someone else. All this quick movement could begin to make your head spin, but try not to get caught up in a tizzy when it comes to making or spending right now.
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HOMEWORK FOR GROWNUPS JUMBLED WORDS
TEST YOUR VOCABULARY
1. Who directed the 1995 film Casino?
Anger ________ blocked out my nervousness about meeting the other tributes, but now I can feel my anxiety rising again.
2. The Thinker is the work of which sculptor? 3. On which river are the Victoria Falls? 4. In the UK military what does SAS stand for?
a. temporarily
c.
b. ultimately
d. informally
luxuriously
Temporarily is the adverbial form of "temporary," which comes from the Latin word tempus, meaning time. Something done temporarily is supposed to be concluded in a finite amount of time. If your car is temporarily out of commission, you expect that you will be able to fix it and get it back on the road. If you drop the word temporarily from that sentence, your car may be a goner.
5. From which type of wood are cricket bats traditionally made?
ANSWER: a. Temporarily describes something that happens for a limited amount of time. If you agree to watch your friend's dog temporarily, you'll be surprised if it turns out that your friend will be in France for at least two years.
6. On which part of the body would you wear a sabot?
JUMBLED WORDS
7. What date of the year is St Swithin's Day? 8. What is an archer's arrow case called?
1
E K
10. What type of creature is an avadavat?
2
L
11. What is the name of the prison in the British TV comedy series Porridge?
3
N O G O A
12. Who became the First Minister of Northern Ireland in 1998?
4
G A M I
5
T
A E
6
C
A
9. What is the largest planet in our solar system?
13. What is the largest city in Australia? 14. The Cenotaph is situated in which London street? 15. Which team won the 2006 Superbowl? 16. What is the title of the lowest order of the British nobility?
T N O
O Y
I
D L
E
E U Q
P T
U
E
E
ANSWERS: 1.TOKEN, 2.DOILY, 3.LAGOON, 4.IMAGE, 5.EQUATE, 6.TEACUP
17. What is the plant hamamelis commonly known as?
MATH CORNER
18. What was the title of the first talking film?
Find the sum: –1.54 + 5.093
19. If a dish is 'en papillote' it is cooked or served in what?
A. 3.553 B. 6.63 C. -3.553 D. –6.63
20. Who shot and killed John Lennon in New York, 1980?
ANSWERS: 1.Martin Scorsese, 2.Rodin, 3.Zambezi, 4.Special Air Service, 5.Willow, 6.Foot, 7.15th July, 8.Quiver, 9.Jupiter, 10.Bird, 11.Slade, 12.David Trimble, 13.Sydney, 14.Whitehall, 15.Pittsburgh Steelers, 16.Baron/Baroness, 17.Witch hazel, 18.The Jazz Singer, 19.Paper, 20.Mark Chapman
ANSWERS: A
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